UN Security Council passes resolution calling for ceasefire in Gaza

(BBC) The UN Security Council has passed a resolution calling for an “immediate ceasefire” in Gaza – something the body has repeatedly tried and failed to do since the war began in October.

It became possible after the US refrained from vetoing the measure in a change from its previous position – signalling a growing divergence between Washington and its ally Israel over the offensive in Gaza.

The UN resolution also demands the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages.

Israel cancels delegation visit to Washington

MEANWHILE, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has officially cancelled an Israeli delegation visit to the White House this week.

In a statement posted online by public broadcaster Kann, the prime minister’s office said that the decision was made “in light of the change in the US position”.

Netanyahu had previously threatened to cancel the visit, which comes ahead of an anticipated Israeli ground offensive in Gaza – which the Biden administration has opposed.

Abstention not a policy shift – White House

The abstention on the Gaza ceasefire vote at the UN does not represent a shift in policy, White House spokesman John Kirby said.

Kirby said the final UN resolution did not have language the US deemed essential – hence the abstenion.

He also said that the US would keep talking to Israeli counterparts even if – as we just reported – they didn’t send a delegation this week.

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