The US last night vetoed a draft resolution in the UN Security Council calling for an "immediate, unconditional and permanent ceasefire" between Israel and the Palestinian Islamist group "Hamas" in Gaza, as well as unhindered access to humanitarian aid in the enclave, Reuters reported, quoted by BTA.
“The US has made it clear that it will not support any measure that avoids condemning “Hamas“ and does not call on the group to disarm and leave Gaza”, said before the vote. e. US Permanent Representative to the UN Dorothy Shea.
“This resolution will undermine diplomatic efforts to negotiate a ceasefire that reflects the realities on the ground and embolden “Hamas“, she said of the draft resolution, which was submitted by 10 of the 15 UN Security Council members.
The remaining 14 member states except the US voted in favor of the draft resolution.
Israel has rejected calls for an unconditional and lasting ceasefire, saying “Hamas“ cannot remain in Gaza. The Jewish state has renewed its military offensive in the enclave, while trying to free hostages held by “Hamas“, Reuters reports.