The United Nations Security Council, on Monday, threw its weight behind President Joe Biden’s ceasefire proposal for Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip, urging the Palestinian militants to embrace the deal aimed at halting the eight-month-long conflict.
“Hamas welcomed the adoption of the U.S.-drafted resolution, stating they are prepared to collaborate with mediators to implement the plan’s principles that align with the aspirations of our people and resistance,” a Hamas spokesperson declared.
During the vote, Russia chose to abstain, while the remaining 14 Security Council members voted in favor of the resolution supporting Biden’s three-phase ceasefire blueprint outlined on May 31, which he labeled as an Israeli initiative.
In response to the vote, U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. Linda Thomas-Greenfield expressed, “Today we voted for peace.” The resolution not only acknowledges the new ceasefire proposal and Israel’s acceptance but also urges Hamas to agree to it promptly and without conditions, emphasizing the full implementation of its terms.
Algeria, the sole Arab council member, lent its support to the resolution, with Algeria’s U.N. Ambassador Amar Bendjama explaining, “We see it as a positive step towards an immediate and enduring ceasefire.” He added, “It provides a ray of hope for the Palestinians. It’s time to stop the bloodshed.”
Moreover, the resolution specifies that if negotiations for the first phase extend beyond six weeks, the ceasefire will persist as long as the talks continue, ensuring a sustained effort towards peace in the region.
