A US-proposed Israel-Gaza ceasefire plan is in the offing. The United Nations Security Council voted for such a support. The proposal outlines conditions for a “full and complete ceasefire,” the release of hostages held by Hamas, the return of deceased hostages’ remains, and the exchange of Palestinian prisoners. Fourteen out of the 15 Security Council members voted in favor of the US-drafted resolution, with Russia abstaining.
The resolution states that Israel has accepted the ceasefire proposal and urges Hamas to do the same. This marks the Security Council’s alignment with various governments and the G7 nations, supporting the three-part plan unveiled by President Joe Biden on May 31. The vote is expected to increase pressure on both sides to respond positively to the plan, aiming to end the conflict. This development follows US Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s meetings with foreign leaders, including Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, to garner support for the peace deal.
Hours before the UN vote, Blinken urged regional leaders, “If you want a ceasefire, press Hamas to say yes.” Although Hamas has indicated support for parts of the plan and “welcomed” the Security Council resolution, it is likely to demand guarantees for a permanent ceasefire and a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza. Its political leadership in Doha has yet to formally respond, according to US and Israeli officials.
The proposal includes a major reconstruction plan for Gaza, largely destroyed in the conflict. The first phase involves a hostage-prisoner swap and a short-term ceasefire. The second phase aims for a “permanent end to hostilities” and a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza. The third phase focuses on Gaza’s long-term outlook, initiating a multi-year reconstruction plan.
Monday’s resolution follows President Biden’s announcement 10 days earlier that Israel had agreed to the plan, though Netanyahu has not formally endorsed it. The US recognizes that Israel’s fractious ruling coalition approaches the plan with reluctance, with some far-right ministers threatening to collapse the government if the deal progresses. The resignation of former general Benny Gantz from the war cabinet on Sunday has exacerbated this instability.
President Biden’s X account noted the resolution’s passage, stating, “Hamas says it wants a ceasefire. This deal is an opportunity to prove they mean it.” US Ambassador to the UN, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, declared, “Today we voted for peace.” UK Ambassador Barbara Woodward described the Gaza situation as “catastrophic,” urging the parties to seize the opportunity for lasting peace. UK Foreign Secretary David Cameron also welcomed the resolution.
The conflict began on October 7 when Hamas attacked southern Israel, killing about 1,200 people and taking 251 hostages. The Hamas-run health ministry reports that over 37,000 people have died in Gaza since Israel’s response.
