The UN Security Council adopted a resolution aimed at reaching a comprehensive ceasefire deal in three phases to end the aggression on Gaza, with US Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield telling members “today, we voted for peace.”
The proposal was adopted by a large majority with 14 votes in favor and Russia abstaining.
The motion envisages three phases to ensure a lasting and comprehensive end to the war.
Phase one includes an immediate, full, and complete ceasefire with the release of hostages and the exchange of Palestinian prisoners.
The proposal calls for the withdrawal of Israeli forces from “populated areas” of Gaza, the return of Palestinians to their homes and neighborhoods throughout the enclave, including in the north, as well as the safe and effective distribution of humanitarian assistance at scale.
Phase two would see a permanent end to hostilities in exchange for the release of all other hostages still in Gaza, and a full withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.
In phase three, a major multi-year reconstruction plan for Gaza would begin.
In the resolution, the Security Council rejects any attempt at demographic or territorial change in the Gaza Strip, including any actions that reduce the territory of the enclave.
The text also reiterates the Council’s “unwavering commitment” to the vision of the two-state solution where two democratic States, Israel and Palestine, live side by side in peace within secure and recognized borders consistent with international law and relevant UN resolutions.
The resolution stresses the importance of unifying the Gaza Strip with the West Bank under the Palestinian Authority.
