United Nations Approves Cease-Fire Plan
The U.N. Security Council recently endorsed a cease-fire plan designed to end the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. The resolution, sponsored by the United States, was approved with overwhelming support from 14 out of the 15 Security Council members. The plan calls for a three-phase approach to be implemented by both Israel and Hamas without any delay or conditions.
International Pressure Mounts
While the acceptance of the plan by both parties remains uncertain, the strong backing from the U.N.’s most influential body adds significant pressure. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken visited Israel to urge Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to consider the postwar Gaza proposal. In response, Hamas expressed its willingness to engage in indirect negotiations to implement the resolution.
Efforts Towards Cease-Fire
Despite some uncertainty surrounding the details of the plan, the U.S. Ambassador emphasized that Israel has agreed to the cease-fire deal. The U.S. sees this agreement as the most viable option to halt the conflict temporarily, stressing that the fighting could end promptly if Hamas also accepts the deal.
Hamas Calls for Permanent Cease-Fire
Hamas leaders, after discussions in Qatar, emphasized the need for any deal to lead to a permanent cease-fire, complete Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, reconstruction, and an exchange of hostages. While Russia abstained from voting due to unanswered questions about the plan, Algeria’s U.N. Ambassador highlighted the significance of the resolution for Palestinians.
Three-Phase Plan for Cease-Fire
The resolution outlines a three-phase plan proposed by President Joe Biden. The first phase includes a six-week cease-fire, the release of hostages, withdrawal of Israeli forces from populated areas, and humanitarian aid distribution in Gaza. Subsequent phases focus on permanent hostilities end, reconstruction, and political resolutions for Gaza.
Commitment to Diplomatic Solutions
The Security Council emphasizes the importance of ongoing diplomatic efforts by Egypt, Qatar, and the United States to achieve a comprehensive cease-fire. The resolution reiterates the council’s commitment to a negotiated two-state solution for Israel and Palestine, emphasizing the unification of the Gaza Strip with the West Bank under the Palestinian Authority.
Read More of this Story at apnews.com – 2024-06-11 08:50:00
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