By: John Cowan

On September 18, 2025 the USA vetoed a Security Council resolution regarding Gaza demanding an immediate, unconditional and permanent ceasefire, release of all hostages held by Hamas and for Israel to lift all restrictions on the entry and distribution of humanitarian aid.

This resolution was clearly aimed at ending atrocities - even Israel should want a permanent ceasefire and return of the hostages. But its protector, the USA doesn't want to end atrocities, (maybe because an end to hostilities would reduce arms sales by the USA?)

To veto a resolution aimed at ending atrocities is an action that is widely understood as illegal under international law. The UN Security Council's Charter purpose is to maintain the peace, not prolong atrocity crimes. Unfortunately the Council has a nasty habit of not challenging such illegal vetoes. 

The World Federalist Movement - Canada is launching a campaign to press Canada to assemble a UN General Assembly resolution seeking an advisory opinion from the International Court of Justice on the legal limitations to the use of the veto. I hope this campaign is successful. The backing of an ICJ opinion would empower non-permanent members of the Security Council to pass a procedural ruling eliminating the veto when a resolution to end atrocity crimes is presented.