US poised to block Gaza truce vote

The UN Security Council was set to vote yesterday on a resolution calling for a ceasefire and unrestricted humanitarian access in Gaza, a measure expected to fail due to a US veto.

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The vote is the council's first vote on the subject since November, when the United States — a key Israeli ally — also blocked a text calling for an end to fighting.

The new resolution, seen by AFP, "demands an immediate, unconditional and permanent ceasefire in Gaza respected by all parties." It also calls for the "immediate, dignified and unconditional release of all hostages held by Hamas and other groups."