Overview

• The UN General Assembly is set to vote on a resolution for an immediate, unconditional and lasting ceasefire in Gaza, with diplomats forecasting an overwhelming majority approval.
• Israel’s representatives lobbied for member abstentions, denouncing the ceasefire proposal as a “politically motivated, counterproductive farce.”
• Australia, the UK, Canada, New Zealand and Norway imposed travel bans and asset freezes on Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir for incitement of violence.
• Germany declined to join these measures, citing its policy of implementing sanctions only within the EU framework.
• Gaza continues to face a dire humanitarian crisis with mass displacement, food shortages and mounting civilian casualties driving calls for urgent diplomatic action.