"U.S. Urges Immediate Ceasefire in Gaza Amid Israel-Hamas Conflict"

The U.S. has submitted a draft resolution to the U.N. Security Council calling for an "immediate" ceasefire in Gaza, marking a shift in its previous stance of vetoing similar resolutions. Secretary of State Antony Blinken emphasized the need to prioritize protecting civilians and providing humanitarian assistance, while also pressing for a ceasefire tied to the release of hostages held by Hamas. The U.S. has received written assurances from Israel regarding the use of American-made weapons in Gaza, with President Biden having the option to halt arms transfers if the credibility of the assurances is questioned. The conflict, which has resulted in thousands of deaths, has prompted U.N. Secretary General Antonio Guterres to demand the allowance of humanitarian aid into Gaza to address an imminent famine.