The UN Security Council has called for temporary ceasefires in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip. This marks the first time the council has spoken out since the conflict began. The resolution also demands the release of all hostages held by Hamas.
The council’s statement comes shortly after Israeli troops conducted a raid on the al Shifa hospital in Gaza. The hospital is currently housing thousands of sick and homeless individuals, including newborn babies. The Israeli government justified the raid by claiming that they were searching for Hamas’ tunnel network.
However, Israel has strongly criticized the UN resolution, dismissing it as “detached from reality on the ground.” Gilad Erdan, Israel’s ambassador to the UN, stated that regardless of the council’s decision, Israel will continue to act in accordance with international law, while accusing Hamas of disregarding the resolution entirely.
Erdan also pointed out that the UN council has failed to condemn the October 7 massacre, in which 1,200 Israelis were killed after Hamas launched 5,000 rockets and breached the border into Southern Israel. He expressed disappointment that the council has chosen to ignore or remain silent about this incident.
Erdan emphasized that Israel does not need a resolution to remind them to adhere to international law, as they always do so. He stated that bringing their hostages home is Israel’s top priority and that they will continue to take any necessary actions to achieve this goal.
Following the raid, the Israeli army released a video showcasing the weapons and ammunition they claimed to have recovered from the hospital complex, including automatic weapons, grenades, and flak jackets.
