The UN Security Council has adopted US backed Ceasefire resolution aiming to end Israel’s eight-month war on Gaza with US Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield telling members "today, we voted for peace."
The proposal was adopted by a large majority of 14 votes in favor with Russia abstaining.
The resolution welcomes a three-phase ceasefire proposal announced by US President Joe Biden last month, which calls for an initial six-week ceasefire and the exchange of some Israeli captives held in Gaza for Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli jails.
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.
The third phase would involve a reconstruction effort for the devastated Gaza Strip.
The US says Israel has accepted the proposal, although some Israeli officials have since promised to continue the war until the elimination of Hamas, the Palestinian group that governs Gaza.
Hamas welcomed the resolution stating that it was ready to cooperate with mediators and enter indirect negotiations.