"Russia and China Veto US-Led UN Resolution for Gaza Ceasefire"

The United Nations Security Council rejected a U.S.-led resolution for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza as part of a hostage deal after Russia and China vetoed the measure. The resolution, which called for a six-week ceasefire to protect civilians and allow humanitarian aid, was supported by 11 of the 15 council members. The U.S. accused Russia and China of vetoing the resolution for "cynical" and "petty" reasons, while Russia and China criticized the resolution as unbalanced and lacking opposition to a planned Israeli military operation. Alternative resolutions are being considered, with France aiming to persuade Russia and China to back another ceasefire resolution at the UN.