The ongoing Gaza war, which began on October 7, 2023, has resulted in over 41,200 reported Palestinian civilian deaths, according to local health authorities.

Israel has intensified its military operations in both Gaza and the West Bank, particularly targeting refugee camps, which has led to a significant rise in casualties among Palestinians.

The blockade and military assault on Gaza have caused severe shortages of essential resources such as food, water, and medical supplies, highlighting the urgent need for a complete overhaul of the region's infrastructure.

In the West Bank, violence perpetrated by Israeli settlers against Palestinians has escalated, with settlers increasingly operating under military protection and support from far-right Israeli officials.

During a recent UN Security Council briefing, China's ambassador to the UN, Geng Shuang, accused the US of obstructing ceasefire efforts amid the ongoing conflict.

Shuang urged the US to take responsibility and exert pressure on Israel to halt military operations, stressing the necessity for international action to address the humanitarian disaster in Gaza.

He also questioned the effectiveness of the Security Council in preventing the current humanitarian crisis, describing it as the worst of its kind to date.

Initially, the Security Council had endorsed a ceasefire deal proposed by the US in June, which was claimed to have been accepted by Israel; however, subsequent reports indicated a lack of commitment from Israel to a lasting ceasefire.

Shuang pointed out that the US's protection of Israel has led to the rejection of multiple ceasefire resolutions proposed by the Security Council.

In light of the ongoing conflict, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is scheduled to meet with Egyptian officials to discuss efforts aimed at achieving a ceasefire and enhancing broader regional security.