UN Security Council Passes US-Drafted Resolution for Ceasefire Between Israel and Hamas
New Delhi, June 11, 2024: The United States has drafted a resolution urging Hamas to accept a ceasefire proposal announced by President Joe Biden on May 31, which Israel has already agreed to. This resolution, adopted with 14 votes in Favor and Russia abstaining, calls for both parties to implement the proposal "without delay and without condition."
Russia's Permanent Representative expressed concerns over the clarity of Israel's commitments under the resolution, leaving Moscow unable to support it. President Biden described the deal as more than just a fragile ceasefire, but to achieve a "durable end to the war," with terms communicated to Hamas by Qatar.
This US-led initiative, which has garnered support from both Israel and the Palestinian mission, avoided vetoes from permanent members, including the US, that have hindered previous resolutions since the violence began on October 7.
Three-Phase Approach
The resolution outlines a three-phase plan to end the conflict comprehensively:
Immediate Ceasefire and Hostage Release: Calls for an immediate ceasefire, the release of hostages including women, the elderly, and the wounded, return of remains of deceased hostages, exchange of Palestinian prisoners, withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, return of Palestinians to their homes, and large-scale humanitarian aid distribution.
Permanent End to Hostilities: A permanent cessation of hostilities in exchange for the release of all remaining hostages and a full withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.
Reconstruction of Gaza: Initiates a major multi-year reconstruction plan for Gaza and the return of any deceased hostages' remains to Israel.
The resolution also stipulates that if phase one negotiations exceed six weeks, the ceasefire will continue as long as talks persist.
The Security Council's resolution rejects any attempts at demographic or territorial changes in Gaza, affirming the vision of a two-State solution where Israel and Palestine coexist peacefully within secure and recognized borders, and stresses the importance of unifying Gaza with the West Bank under the Palestinian Authority.
US Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield emphasized that the fighting could end if Hamas accepts the deal endorsed by the Security Council, noting the international community's united stance behind a deal to save lives and help Gaza rebuild. She stressed the US commitment to ensuring Israel meets its obligations, contingent on Hamas's acceptance of the deal.
Reactions from Other Nations
Algeria: Ambassador Amar Bendjama expressed solidarity with the Palestinians, drawing parallels with Algeria's history of resisting colonial occupation. He stressed that Algeria's vote for the resolution aims to save Palestinian lives and halt the killing, despite the text's imperfections.
China: Ambassador Fu Cong supported the resolution but highlighted the need for a permanent ceasefire to address civilians' urgent needs in Gaza, stressing that all Security Council resolutions must be implemented effectively.
Russia: Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia abstained due to concerns over the clarity and details of the resolution, questioning Israel's commitments and expressing doubts about the vague parameters of the "so-called deal."
Israel: Representative Reut Shapir Ben Naftaly reiterated Israel's goals of rescuing all hostages and dismantling Hamas's capabilities. She called for increased pressure on Hamas and stated that Israel would continue its efforts until these objectives are met, rejecting prolonged negotiations that could be exploited by Hamas.
