International Calls for Ceasefire in Gaza Met with US Opposition

The United States has vetoed a UN resolution demanding an immediate cease-fire in Gaza, despite support from other Security Council members and many nations. The US criticized the council for not condemning Hamas' attack on Israel and not acknowledging Israel's right to defend itself. The US argued that halting military action would allow Hamas to continue ruling Gaza and potentially lead to future conflicts. The UN Secretary-General warned of a "humanitarian catastrophe" in Gaza and urged the council to demand a cease-fire. Israel's military campaign has resulted in thousands of deaths and widespread destruction in Gaza. The Palestinian ambassador accused Israel of ethnic cleansing, while Israel's ambassador argued that peace can only be achieved by eliminating Hamas.