World leaders and officials have welcomed a United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolution demanding an immediate ceasefire to end the ongoing war on Gaza.
While the United States abstained from the vote, the resolution received unanimous support from the remaining 14 council members.
Introduced by the council’s 10 elected members, the resolution calls for an “immediate ceasefire” throughout the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, culminating in two weeks. It also advocates for a durable truce to bring an end to the devastating conflict in Gaza, the release of all hostages held in the region, and the adherence to international law regarding detainments.
Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs
The ministry hailed the resolution as a pivotal step towards ending the protracted war in Gaza, facilitating the entry of aid, and initiating the return of displaced individuals.
“The consensus we witnessed today should pave the way for the full recognition of the much-delayed rights of the Palestinians and independence of the State of Palestine,” the ministry emphasized.
Hamas Official Basem Naim
Hamas committed to the resolution’s conditions and emphasized Israel’s accountability in adhering to them.
Basem Naim, a senior Hamas official, questioned the international community’s strength in compelling Israel to implement the resolution, stating, “It is the role of the international community to oblige Israel and to end this double standard.”
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres
Guterres emphasized the imperative implementation of the resolution, declaring, “Failure to do so would be unforgivable.”
China’s Ambassador to the UN Zhang Jun
Ambassador Zhang Jun highlighted the late adoption of the resolution and its potential impact on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
“For the lives that have already perished, the council resolution today comes too late, but for the millions of people in Gaza… this resolution could still bring long-awaited hope,” Zhang Jun remarked.
Russia’s Ambassador to the UN Vasily Alekseyevich Nebenzya
Nebenzya expressed hope that the resolution would serve peace interests rather than advancing “inhumane Israeli operations against Palestinians.” He voiced disappointment over the absence of a provision for a permanent sustainable ceasefire.
French Ambassador to the UN Nicolas de Riviere
De Riviere applauded the council’s action, asserting that it proves the UNSC can act when members make necessary efforts.
He stressed the need to work towards a permanent ceasefire and revive the political process for a two-state solution.
UK Ambassador to the UN Barbara Woodward
Woodward expressed regret over the ‘resolution’s failure to condemn the October 7 Hamas attack’ and emphasized the UK’s condemnation of such attacks.
She called for immediate implementation of the resolution and underscored the need for a new Palestinian government and international support package.
Algeria Representative to the UN Amar Bendjama
Bendjama commended the Security Council for finally shouldering its responsibility in maintaining international peace and security.
He thanked council members for their constructive approach towards adopting the resolution, describing the ongoing conflict as a “bloodbath” that has persisted for too long.
Slovenia’s Envoy to the UN Samuel Zbogar
Envoy Samuel Zbogar celebrated the UNSC’s strong message for an immediate and lasting ceasefire, stating, “It is a call we have all been desperate to hear from the council.”
Human Rights Watch UN Director Louis Charbonneau
Charbonneau called on Israel to promptly respond to the resolution by facilitating humanitarian aid and ending attacks.
He urged Palestinian groups to release all civilian hostages and called on the US and other nations to use their leverage to suspend arms transfers to Israel.
According to Palestinian health authorities, more than 32,000 Palestinians, predominantly women and children, have been killed in the Israeli assault since October 7.
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