U.S. blocks Security Council statement a third time.
The United Nations General Assembly will convene Tuesday morning to discuss the ongoing conflict between Israel and Gaza amid an intensifying international effort to secure a cessation of hostilities after a week of deadly cross-border violence. The United States has blocked, for the third time, a joint Security Council statement that calls for an immediate ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.
“We have made clear that we are prepared to lend our support and good offices to the parties should they seek a ceasefire,” Secretary Blinken said during a visit to Copenhagen. “Any diplomatic initiative that advances that prospect is something that we’ll support,” he said. “And we are again willing and ready to do that. But ultimately it is up to the parties to make clear that they want to pursue a ceasefire.”
The chief of the Israeli Defense Force said that he expects the fighting to last at least two more days. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered continued strikes. “We will do whatever it takes to restore order,” he said.
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For U.S. officials as they respond to the conflict between Israel and the Palestinians.
- For wisdom for U.S. diplomats and military leaders as they advise the president.
- For peace for Israel and the Middle East region.
Sources: Times of Israel, Daily Star, Al Jazeera
