US vetoes UNSC resolution on Gaza ceasefire for third time, proposes alternative draft

The United States has vetoed three draft resolutions at the UN Security Council calling for a ceasefire in the Israel-Gaza conflict. The most recent veto occurred on an Arab-backed resolution that was put to a vote with the expectation it would not pass. Thirteen council members voted in favor, while the United Kingdom abstained. The US argued that the proposed resolution would interfere with ongoing negotiations for a temporary ceasefire and the release of hostages. Israel's ambassador stated that the resolution would not achieve lasting peace. The UN has warned that Gaza is on the verge of an "explosion" in preventable child deaths due to the conflict. Over four months of war, Israel has faced increasing international pressure over the high civilian death toll.