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The United Nations Security Council has endorsed President Joe Biden’s proposed ceasefire plan between Israel and Hamas, marking a significant step towards peace in the Gaza Strip. This resolution, designed to end the eight-month-long conflict, received overwhelming support on Monday.
The U.S.-drafted resolution calls for an immediate ceasefire, urging both Israel and Hamas to implement the terms without delay or conditions. U.S. Ambassador to the UN, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, emphasized the importance of this decision, stating, “Today we voted for peace.”
Hamas responded positively, expressing readiness to work with mediators to implement the plan. “We are prepared to cooperate on principles consistent with the demands of our people and resistance,” Hamas stated.
Despite widespread support, Russia abstained from the vote, citing concerns over the resolution’s lack of specificity. Russian Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia argued that the Security Council should not endorse agreements with “vague parameters.” However, he acknowledged the resolution’s support within the Arab world.
The resolution outlines a three-phase ceasefire plan initially described by Biden as an Israeli initiative. Algeria, the sole Arab member of the council, supported the measure. Ambassador Amar Bendjama called it a potential step towards an immediate and lasting ceasefire, offering “a glimmer of hope to the Palestinians.” Bendjama emphasized, “It’s time to halt the killing.”
Israel’s stance was reiterated by senior Israeli UN diplomat Reut Shapir Ben Naftaly, who underscored Israel’s goals of freeing all hostages, dismantling Hamas’ military capabilities, and ensuring Gaza poses no future threat. “It is Hamas that is preventing this war from ending,” she stated.
The Security Council’s resolution follows months of mediation efforts by the U.S., Egypt, and Qatar, aiming to halt the violence that has claimed thousands of lives. The conflict, reignited by Hamas’ attack on October 7, has seen significant casualties on both sides, with Israel retaliating through extensive military operations in Gaza.
As the international community moves towards implementing the ceasefire, the focus remains on achieving lasting peace and stability in the region.
