"US Blocks Sixth UN Bid for Gaza Ceasefire Amid Escalating Violence"

US Vetoes Sixth UN Call for Gaza Ceasefire Amid Escalating Violence The United States has vetoed a sixth draft resolution at the United Nations Security Council, blocking a call for an immediate and permanent ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages. The move comes as the humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate, with the UN's humanitarian office warning that conditions are "catastrophic." According to the US deputy Middle East envoy Morgan Ortagus, the draft resolution did not go far enough in condemning Hamas or recognizing Israel's right to defend itself. All 14 other members of the Security Council voted in favor of the resolution, which described the humanitarian situation in Gaza as "catastrophic" and called on Israel to lift all aid restrictions. The latest veto has sparked international criticism, with many accusing the US of isolating itself on the global stage amidst escalating violence in the region. The UN's Secretary-General António Guterres expressed concern over the continued bloodshed, stating that "the cycle of violence must be broken." The draft resolution, which was put forward by several countries including the UK, France, and Germany, called for an immediate ceasefire and the release of hostages held in Gaza. It also urged Israel to lift all aid restrictions and allow humanitarian assistance into the region. According to a UN spokesperson, the organization's humanitarian office has warned that the situation in Gaza is "on the brink of collapse." The spokesperson stated that "the lack of access to essential services, including healthcare and sanitation, is exacerbating the suffering of civilians." The US veto marks the sixth time this year that Washington has blocked a UN Security Council resolution on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The move has been met with widespread criticism from human rights groups and international leaders. In response to the veto, the Palestinian ambassador to the UN, Riyad Mansour, stated that "the US is responsible for perpetuating the suffering of the Palestinian people." He added that "the continued blockade of Gaza and the occupation of the West Bank are a clear breach of international law." The situation in Gaza remains dire, with thousands of civilians trapped without access to basic necessities. The UN's humanitarian office has warned that the situation could worsen if aid restrictions continue. As the violence escalates, the international community is calling for an immediate ceasefire and a return to negotiations. However, it remains to be seen whether the US will reconsider its stance on the issue. The US State Department has yet to comment on the veto, but officials are expected to address the matter in the coming days. In the meantime, the humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate, with thousands of civilians trapped without access to basic necessities. This story was compiled from reports by BBC World and BBC World.