The United States has urged the UN Security Council to vote on a resolution supporting a permanent ceasefire and the release of hostages in Gaza. The US Mission to the United Nations spokesperson emphasized that Israel has accepted the proposal and urged Hamas to do the same to save lives and alleviate the suffering of civilians and hostages.
The draft resolution outlines a three-phase plan to end hostilities. The first phase involves a complete ceasefire and the release of hostages. The second phase calls for a permanent end to hostilities, the release of all hostages, and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. The third phase focuses on initiating a multi-year reconstruction plan for Gaza.
The resolution explicitly rejects any attempts at demographic or territorial changes in Gaza, including the establishment of buffer zones. It reaffirms the commitment to achieving a negotiated two-State solution.
The timing of the vote is yet to be determined. The US's call for a unified Security Council voice underscores the importance of swift action to address the crisis in Gaza and work towards a lasting peace in the region.