NEW YORK, Oct 17 — The UN Security Council yesterday rejected a Russian resolution condemning spiralling violence in the Middle East, with delegates refusing to back a motion...
, with delegates refusing to back a motion that did not single out Hamas for its surprise attack on Israel that left at least 1,400 people dead.
Just four countries voted with Russia on its proposed text. Four others — including the US — voted against, while six abstained.A second text proposed by Brazil with unequivocal language condemning the Islamist group appeared to have broader support, and was expected to come to the vote later this evening, diplomats said.
“We cannot support a resolution which fails to condemn Hamas’ terror attacks,” Barbara Woodward told the council. Palestinian ambassador Riyad Mansour said the council had a moral duty to act in a bid to restrain an Israeli assault on the Gaza Strip he said was claiming 12 lives every hour.“Don’t dare say Israel is not responsible for the bombs it is dropping over their heads.