UN countries push for statement urging ceasefire

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi tears into the US for twice blocking a joint statement from the Security Council criticizing both Israelis and Palestinians for the ongoing violence and calling for an immediate ceasefire.

“China has been working with relevant countries on a security council press statement. Regrettably, due to the obstruction of one country, the Security Council hasn’t been able to speak as one voice,” Yi says.

“We call upon the US to shoulder its dual responsibilities, take a just position and together with the international community to support the Security Council in easing the situation and building toward a political settlement,” he adds.

Norway’s Foreign Minister Ine Eriksen Soreide implores members to issue a joint statement following today’s session that addresses the situation in Gaza and Israel.

“It is now vital that the council speak with one voice to address the situation. Norway stands ready to work with all council members to find suitable language to address the situation, calling for an immediate cessation of hostilities and a ceasefire and reconfirming our support for a two-state solution,” she says.

Ireland’s Foreign Minister Simon Coveney, who speaks after the Norwegian representative, joins in her call for a joint statement.

Such a statement has twice been blocked by the US in the past week.