U.S. vetoes UN ceasefire bid as battles rage across Gaza

US blocks UN bid for ceasefire in Gaza as Israeli forces continue offensive, leaving 17,487 dead, mostly women and children. Vast areas destroyed, 80% displaced, facing shortages of food, fuel, water and medicine.

An extraordinary UN bid to call for a ceasefire in Gaza was blocked by the United States on December 8 while Israeli forces continued a relentless offensive to destroy Hamas after its deadly attack two months ago.

Washington wielding its veto dashes a growing clamour for an immediate ceasefire that had been led by UN Chief Antonio Guterres and Arab nations.

Mr. Guterres had convened an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council after weeks of fighting left more than 17,487 people dead in Gaza, mostly women and children, according to the latest toll from the health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza.

“The United Arab Emirates is deeply disappointed,” said the representative of the UAE who had sponsored the resolution calling for a ceasefire.

“Regrettably... this council is unable to demand a humanitarian ceasefire.”

Washington defended its veto, and attacked the resolution’s sponsors, criticizing them for rushing it through and leaving the call for an unconditional ceasefire unchanged.

As a permanent Security Council member, Washington can veto any resolution, while Britain, also a member, abstained on the vote.