After more than five months of conflict, the UN Security Council made history on Monday by demanding an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.
Notably, the United States, a traditional ally of Israel and a frequent veto-holder, chose to abstain this time. The resolution emphasizes the need for a ceasefire to pave the way for a lasting peace and calls for the release of hostages held by Hamas and other militants since their October 7 attack.
„The prolonged bloodshed must end,“ stated Amar Bendjama, the representative of Algeria, which currently holds the Arab bloc’s seat on the Security Council. The resolution was co-sponsored by a diverse group, including Slovenia, Switzerland, Japan, and South Korea.
The Health Ministry in the Gaza Strip reported on Wednesday that the Palestinian death toll from Israel’s offensive since Oct. 7 has risen to 32,932.