Amid escalating tensions in West Asia due to the ongoing Israel-Hamas war, now in its eighth month, the United Nations Security Council has adopted a resolution calling for a permanent ceasefire and the release of hostages in Gaza. The vote on the US-drafted proposal took place on Monday and saw overwhelming support with 14 votes in favor, zero against, and one abstention by Russia.
The resolution, rooted in a ceasefire proposal announced by President Joe Biden on May 31, requires Hamas to agree to terms already accepted by Israel. This comprehensive ceasefire deal is structured in three phases.
Phase One demands an immediate, full ceasefire, the release of hostages, including women, the elderly, and the wounded, and the return of the remains of deceased hostages. It also calls for Israeli soldiers to withdraw from populated areas of Gaza, the safe return of Palestinians to their homes, and the distribution of humanitarian aid.
Phase Two proposes a permanent end to hostilities in exchange for the release of all remaining hostages and a full withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.
Phase Three outlines a major multi-year reconstruction plan for Gaza, including the return of any remaining deceased hostages’ remains to Israel.
President Biden emphasized that this deal offers a durable end to the conflict rather than a fragile and temporary ceasefire. He noted that the terms had been communicated to Hamas through Qatar.
US Ambassador to the United Nations, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, urged Hamas to accept the deal, highlighting the united stance of the international community behind a resolution aimed at saving lives and aiding Palestinian civilians. She affirmed that the US would ensure Israel meets its obligations under the deal, conditional on Hamas’ acceptance.
The resolution explicitly forbids any demographic or territorial changes in the Gaza Strip and reaffirms the Council’s commitment to a two-state solution, stressing the importance of unifying Gaza with the West Bank under the Palestinian Authority.
The conflict intensified after the October 7 attack by Hamas, where approximately 2,500 terrorists breached the border into Israel, leading to numerous casualties and hostages. Israel has since focused its offensive on dismantling Hamas’ infrastructure while attempting to minimize civilian casualties.
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