, March 12 -- The UN Security Council on Wednesday failed to adopt a draft resolution calling for an immediate halt to military activities and urging all parties to avoid further escalation in the Middle East.

The resolution, proposed by Russia, also sought to condemn attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure. However, it did not pass after receiving four votes in favour, two against and nine abstentions.

Russia, China, Pakistan and Somalia supported the proposal, while the United States and Latvia voted against it.

Russia's UN Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia expressed disappointment over the outcome, saying some council members failed to gather the "strength and wisdom" needed to support the resolution.

Earlier the same day, the S...