
UNSC calls for immediate Gaza ceasefire
The UN Security Council voted for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages, a motion supported by 14 members with the US abstaining. It’s the first such agreement concerning the conflict between Israel and Hamas. The resolution, proposed by the ten non-permanent members, demands a ceasefire during Ramadan, intended to pave the way for a durable peace. Algeria’s UN ambassador emphasized the suffering of the Palestinian people and called for an end to the bloodshed. The abstention by the US, which previously opposed ceasefire language and has veto power, signals increasing pressure due to the escalating death toll and fears of starvation in Gaza. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has canceled a trip to Washington D.C. in response. The resolution mandates the unconditional release of all hostages held by Hamas and is legally binding, but its adherence by Israel and Hamas remains uncertain.