The UN Security Council adopted on Monday a resolution aiming for a comprehensive ceasefire in Gaza, with U.S. Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield declaring, “Today, we voted for peace.”
Drafted by the United States, the resolution calls for Hamas to accept a ceasefire proposal announced by President Joe Biden on May 31, which Israel has already accepted.
The resolution passed with 14 votes in favor and Russia abstaining. It urges both parties to implement the ceasefire terms “without delay and without condition.”
Russia’s Permanent Representative expressed concerns over the lack of clarity about Israel’s commitments under the resolution, stating that this uncertainty prevented Moscow from supporting the measure.
President Biden emphasized that the ceasefire agreement aims for a lasting peace, rather than a temporary halt to hostilities. He noted that Qatar had conveyed the terms of the deal to Hamas leadership.
This U.S.-led initiative marks a significant diplomatic effort, avoiding vetoes from permanent Security Council members. This contrasts with previous failed resolutions since the violence began on October 7.
Three-Phase Approach
Phase one includes an “immediate, full, and complete ceasefire with the release of hostages including women, the elderly, and the wounded, the return of the remains of some hostages who have been killed, and the exchange of Palestinian prisoners.”
It also calls for the withdrawal of Israeli forces from “populated areas” of Gaza, the return of Palestinians to their homes and neighborhoods throughout the enclave, including in the north, as well as the safe and effective distribution of humanitarian assistance at scale.
Phase two would see a permanent end to hostilities “in exchange for the release of all other hostages still in Gaza, and a full withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.”
In phase three, “a major multi-year reconstruction plan for Gaza” would begin, and the remains of any deceased hostages still in the Strip would be returned to Israel.
Shortlink for this post: https://daysofpalestine.ps/?p=54471
