UN Security Council adopts ceasefire resolution to end Israel-Hamas war in Gaza

June 11, 2024 - The United Nations Security Council on Monday unanimously adopted a U.S.-backed resolution calling for an "immediate, full and complete ceasefire" in the war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. The resolution endorses President Biden's three-phase plan to end the eight-month conflict.

The resolution urges both Israel and Hamas to implement the ceasefire plan without delay or conditions. It calls for Hamas to accept the deal that Israel has reportedly already agreed to. Phase one includes an immediate ceasefire, the release of hostages, the return of Palestinian prisoners, the withdrawal of Israeli forces from populated areas in Gaza, and the safe distribution of humanitarian aid. Phase two aims to achieve a permanent end to hostilities in exchange for the release of all remaining hostages and a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza. Phase three will launch a major reconstruction plan for the devastated Gaza Strip.

U.S. Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield told the council "today, we voted for peace" and that the fighting could stop immediately if Hamas accepts the deal. She said the resolution shows the international community is united behind an agreement that will save lives and help Gaza start to rebuild.

The resolution reaffirms the Security Council's commitment to a two-state solution where Israel and Palestine live side-by-side in peace. It also stresses the importance of unifying Gaza and the West Bank under the Palestinian Authority.

However, Israel's UN representative maintained that Israel's objectives remain unchanged and military action will continue until all hostages are returned and Hamas' capabilities are dismantled. The future of the ceasefire remains uncertain as negotiations continue.