In a fervent speech at the United Nations Security Council, Russia's permanent representative, Vasily Nebenzia, condemned the United States' proposed alternative draft resolution on the Gaza Strip crisis, alleging that it would only escalate civilian casualties among Palestinians. Nebenzia argued that the US draft lacked a crucial call for a ceasefire, effectively endorsing Israel's military actions in Gaza.

Emphasizing the dire consequences of US obstructionism, Nebenzia pointed out that the American veto had thwarted multiple attempts to halt the violence, resulting in an alarming toll of Palestinian civilian deaths, nearing 30,000. He squarely blamed Washington for the unfolding humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza and stressed the urgency of prioritizing ceasefire efforts to avert mass starvation and comply with international humanitarian law.

Despite overwhelming support from Council members, including Russia and China, for a ceasefire resolution, the US continued to wield its veto power, obstructing critical humanitarian aid and evacuation efforts in Gaza. Nebenzia underscored the necessity for safe humanitarian corridors to ensure aid delivery and the evacuation of critically ill individuals facing imminent death due to the lack of medical treatment.

Moreover, Nebenzia called for punitive measures against nations impeding humanitarian access to Gaza, urging the Security Council to consider sanctions as a means to enforce compliance. The impassioned plea from Russia highlights the deepening rift within the Council over the handling of the Gaza crisis and underscores the urgent need for concerted international action to alleviate the suffering of civilians caught in the crossfire.