UN Security Council to discuss Israel-Hamas war

The council said it will start deliberations at 6:00 pm (2200 GMT).

Diplomats say two competing draft resolutions are being discussed: one from Russia urging a ceasefire and delivery of humanitarian aid, but making no mention of Hamas, and one sponsored by Brazil, calling the Hamas attacks on October 6 that triggered the war an act of terrorism.

Russia's draft resolution calls for "unimpeded" humanitarian aid and "an immediate" ceasefire.

The Brazilian version differs by stating that it "unequivocally rejects and condemns the heinous terrorist attacks by Hamas" and the taking of hostages by the Palestinian militant group.

However, it also "strongly urges" provision of essential goods to Palestinian civilians and urges "humanitarian pauses" to let in humanitarian aid workers.