UN General Assembly votes for humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza

The U.N. General Assembly (GA) has voted for a resolution,
demanding a humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza. 

The General Assembly expressed deep concern over the
catastrophic humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip and the ongoing suffering
of the Palestinian civilian population. The GA highlighted the need to protect
the Israeli and Palestinian civilian population in accordance with
international law.

The resolution was passed with 153 votes in favor. Among
these countries were Russia, Brazil, Iran, Spain, Canada, China, Cuba, the UAE,
Saudi Arabia, France, Switzerland and Sweden. Ten countries, including Austria
and Israel, voted against. Twenty-three counties abstained.

Demanding that all parties meet their obligations under
international law, the resolution also called for the immediate release of all
hostages and for humanitarian access.

A similar document was not passed last week, as the U.S.
exercised a veto on it.

Resolutions adopted by the U.N. General Assembly have no
binding force.