The United States has again blocked the adoption of a legally binding UN resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, DPA reported, BTA reported.
US Deputy Ambassador to the UN Robert Wood today vetoed the resolution in the Security Council. All 14 other council members voted "in favor" of adopting the resolution.
The text was submitted by all 10 non-permanent members of the most influential UN body. After weeks of negotiations and changes at the request of the United States, there are still disagreements over the resolution, DPA notes.
The United States, a staunch ally of Israel, has unsuccessfully insisted that the ceasefire be linked to the release of Israeli hostages still being held in Gaza.
Israeli forces killed at least 33 Palestinians in the Gaza Strip on Monday, including a rescue worker, Reuters reported, citing health authorities in the enclave. Israeli troops have intensified their operations in northern Gaza, shelling a hospital and blowing up homes.