China says 'deeply disappointed' at US blocking Security Council resolution on Mideast conflict

ISTANBUL

China on Thursday expressed its “deep” disappointment over the US vetoing a UN Security Council resolution on the Palestinian-Israeli situation.

“China is deeply disappointed at the US blocking a UN Security Council resolution on the Palestinian-Israeli situation,” said Mao Ning, spokeswoman for China's Foreign Ministry.

The Security Council must act to de-escalate the conflict and prevent the humanitarian crisis from worsening, Mao stressed on X.

On Wednesday, the US vetoed a UN Security Council draft resolution put forward by Brazil that demands humanitarian pauses in Gaza.

The resolution received 12 votes in favor, one against and two abstentions from Russia and the UK.

The conflict in Gaza, under Israeli bombardment and blockade since Oct. 7, began when Hamas initiated Operation Al-Aqsa Flood, a multi-pronged surprise attack that included a barrage of rocket launches and infiltrations into Israel by land, sea, and air. It said the incursion was in retaliation for the storming of the Al-Aqsa Mosque and growing violence by Israeli settlers.

The Israeli military then launched Operation Swords of Iron against Hamas targets in the Gaza Strip.

Gaza is experiencing a dire humanitarian crisis, with no electricity, while water, food, fuel, and medical supplies are running out.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for an “immediate humanitarian cease-fire” to ease the “epic human suffering.”

At least 3,478 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli attacks on Gaza, while the figure stands at more than 1,400 people in Israel.