In a resounding call for peace, the UN General Assembly overwhelmingly approved a resolution yesterday, urging an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza—153 nations voted in favor, 10 (including US and Israel) opposed and 23 abstained.
The resolution, while not legally binding, reflects global support for ending the Israel-Hamas war.
America’s stance comes after it blocked a similar ceasefire resolution in the 15-member UN Security Council.
At the same time, President Biden warned Israel and expressed concern over waning global support for their Gaza conflict.
He also criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s resistance to a two-state solution.
Meanwhile in Gaza
The Israeli military commenced pumping seawater from the Mediterranean into a complex tunnel network beneath the Gaza Strip. The operation is a crucial part of Israel’s endeavor to dismantle the approximately 300-mile-long infrastructure used by Hamas for transporting supplies and personnel.
The ongoing war between Israel-Hamas, now in its third month, has resulted in the deaths of 18,000 Palestinians since October 7—with 70% of the casualties being women and children, per the Hamas-run health ministry.