In a historic move, the United Nations Security Council voted in favor of a resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, marking the first time the US abstained instead of using its veto power. The resolution, proposed by Mozambique's representative and supported by 14 out of the 15 council members, sent a clear message that hostages held by Hamas should be released and aid must be allowed into Gaza.

However, the US abstention drew strong reactions from Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who had warned of canceling a planned delegation to Washington if the US did not exercise its veto. Subsequently, Netanyahu fulfilled his promise and canceled the high-level Israeli delegation's visit.

The Palestinian Authority's executive committee welcomed the UN resolution, emphasizing the need for a permanent cessation of the ongoing conflict and Israel's immediate withdrawal from the Gaza Strip. The United Kingdom also backed the resolution, stressing the urgency of a sustainable ceasefire and expressing concern over the rising death toll and the risk of a humanitarian catastrophe.

Meanwhile, ActionAid condemned Israel's decision to block the UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) from delivering aid in northern Gaza. This move comes at a critical time, with a UN-backed food security assessment warning of an impending famine in the north of Gaza by May unless urgent interventions are made. Despite the dire situation, Israeli authorities have announced their cessation of cooperation with UNRWA, accusing the organization of perpetuating the conflict.

Hamas, on the other hand, welcomed the UN resolution and expressed readiness to engage in an immediate prisoner swap with Israel. Besides calling for a pause in fighting to bury their fallen members and address humanitarian needs, Hamas sees the resolution as a step towards easing the suffering of the people in Gaza.

The President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, also lauded the adoption of the UN Security Council resolution, emphasizing its vital importance for the protection of all civilians.

As the situation in Gaza remains tense, the world watches closely to see if the ceasefire called for by the UN Security Council can bring an end to the violence and pave the way for long-lasting peace in the region.