The United Nations General Assembly on Friday adopted a resolution calling for an “immediate, durable and sustained humanitarian truce” between Israeli forces and Hamas militants in Gaza. It also demands “continuous, sufficient and unhindered” provision of lifesaving supplies and services for civilians trapped inside the enclave in favour, 14 against. Read more.

UN Secretary General Guterrez was blistering in his condemnation of Israel at yesterday’s session of the UN Security Council. He called for an immediate ceasefire. While he condemned the attack on Israeli civilians by Hamas, he also said “It is important to also recognize the attacks by Hamas did not happen in a vacuum”. Israel promptly called for his resignation, but no other country expressed support for his resignation. Read more.

Defence Minister Bill Blair has publicly exonerated Israel from accusations of genocide over the terrible destruction of the Ahli Arab Anglican hospital in Gaza. He claims he is basing his claim on an independent investigation by the Canadian military. Why would he step in to protect Israel during its murderous bombing campaign? Read more....

An aerial view of destroyed apartment buildings in Gaza, October 21, 2023. (PHOTO: © SHADI TABATIBI.) Who can still live here?. Yet voices still come from under the rubble. Read my exchange with a friend in Gaza this week…

Twelve of the 15 members of the UN Security Council voted yesterday in support of a Brazilian motion calling for “humanitarian pauses” to deliver lifesaving aid to millions in Gaza. The USA used its right of “veto” to defeat the resolution. But the damage to Israel and the US is growing. Read more.