GAZA CITY: Israel intensified its brutal airstrikes on Gaza on Saturday following the United States’ veto of a rare UN resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire in the besieged Palestinian territory. The move, which blocked a vital diplomatic effort, has raised concerns about a worsening humanitarian situation described as dire by aid workers.
The Palestinian Authority and Hamas condemned the US veto, with the Gaza health ministry reported that so far more than 17,490 Palestinian people, mostly women and children, were killed due to Israeli bombardments in Gaza. Israeli strikes in Khan Younis and Rafah killed eleven Palestinians, bringing the total casualties in a 24-hour period to 71, with 160 others wounded.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres invoked a rarely used measure, seeking Security Council endorsement for a ceasefire in Gaza. The deteriorating conditions in Gaza were deemed “impossible for meaningful humanitarian operations” with potential implications for regional peace and security. However, the US veto drew swift condemnation from humanitarian groups.
US envoy Robert Wood criticized the resolution as “divorced from reality,” expressing concern about leaving Hamas in power.
Hamas labeled the US veto as “direct participation in killing our people,” while Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammed Shtayyeh called it “a disgrace.” Iran warned of a possible “uncontrollable explosion” in the regional situation following the US veto.
Vast areas of Gaza lay in ruins, with approximately 80 percent of the population displaced. The World Health Organization’s executive board is set to discuss the health situation, emphasizing “grave concern” about the catastrophic humanitarian conditions and urging Israel to protect aid workers.
Aid groups highlighted the dire conditions in Gaza, citing critically low fuel and medical supplies, people sleeping in the streets, and the unavailability of essentials like diapers. The US National Security Council reiterated calls for Israel to do more to protect civilians, recognizing the need to reduce civilian casualties.
Meanwhile, strikes in neighboring countries raised fears of a broader conflict. Israel targeted unspecified launches from Lebanon, striking Hezbollah’s targets, while a drone strike in south Syria resulted in casualties.
