UN Chief Persists in Pursuit of Gaza Ceasefire Despite US Veto

UN Secretary-General António Guterres has pledged to continue seeking a ceasefire in Gaza despite the US vetoing a UN Security Council resolution. Guterres criticized the council for being "paralysed by geostrategic divisions" and called world institutions "weak and outdated." He emphasized the urgent need for a humanitarian ceasefire and expressed disappointment that the previously passed resolution for more aid in Gaza is not being implemented. With few short-term options, UN officials are focusing on ensuring Israel fulfills commitments to allow more aid into Gaza. Arab foreign ministers believe momentum for a ceasefire may build ahead of Ramadan in March. The Palestinian prime minister called for sanctions against Israel and criticized the international criminal court for its slow response to the Israeli occupation. The UN agency for Palestinian refugees warned of collapse and urged for an end to the dehumanization of Palestinians.