UN Security Council Adopts Gaza Ceasefire Plan

The UN Security Council on June 10, 2024, adopted a US-drafted resolution endorsing a comprehensive three-phase ceasefire plan for Gaza. This pivotal move aims to halt hostilities, secure hostage releases, and significantly boost humanitarian aid, as reported by Reuters.

www.reuters.com reported, The resolution outlines an immediate, full ceasefire in its first phase, coupled with the release of some hostages and Israeli forces withdrawing from populated areas. Subsequent phases involve a permanent end to hostilities and major reconstruction for Gaza, according to UN officials.

The resolution passed with 14 votes in favor, with Russia abstaining, highlighting broad international consensus. US Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield urged both parties to accept the proposal, stating the fighting "could stop today," CNN reported.

www.reuters.com noted, Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office indicated the war would not conclude until Hamas's military capabilities are destroyed and all hostages returned. This suggests reservations about a permanent ceasefire before achieving these objectives, as noted by The Associated Press.

Hamas welcomed some resolution aspects, particularly the call for a permanent ceasefire and Israeli withdrawal. However, the group also expressed reservations, seeking guarantees for full plan implementation, according to Al Jazeera. They stated readiness to negotiate details.

www.reuters.com reported, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken embarked on a regional tour to press for the resolution's acceptance and implementation. He emphasized the urgency, urging both Israel and Hamas to seize this opportunity for peace, The New York Times reported.

This resolution marks a significant diplomatic effort to end the eight-month conflict, providing a concrete framework for de-escalation and humanitarian relief. Its success now hinges on the willingness of both warring parties to fully commit, according to diplomatic analysts.

• The Gaza conflict, now in its eighth month, has seen multiple failed ceasefire attempts. This UN resolution represents the latest comprehensive international effort to halt hostilities that began on October 7, 2023, following Hamas's attack on Israel, as detailed by the Council on Foreign Relations.
• The United States, as the resolution's drafter, strongly advocates for its acceptance. Israel seeks Hamas's destruction and hostage return, while Hamas demands a permanent ceasefire and full Israeli withdrawal. The UN Security Council aims to enforce international law and protect civilians, as articulated by UN Secretary-General António Guterres.
• The conflict has caused catastrophic damage to Gaza's infrastructure, displacing over 80% of its population and pushing millions to famine, according to UNRWA. The resolution's third phase addresses a major multi-year reconstruction plan, vital for rebuilding homes and essential services, as reported by Oxfam.
• This resolution follows months of intense US diplomatic engagement, including Secretary Blinken's repeated regional visits. Earlier Security Council resolutions called for humanitarian pauses, but none endorsed such a comprehensive ceasefire plan, underscoring the escalating urgency felt by the international community, The Guardian noted.
• Immediate next steps involve intense diplomatic negotiations to bridge acceptance gaps between Israel and Hamas. Mediators will press both sides to agree on operational details and guarantees. Challenges include verifying compliance and ensuring sustained humanitarian aid, according to diplomatic sources cited by Reuters.
• For Gazan civilians, the resolution offers hope for an end to violence, displacement, and humanitarian crisis. For Israeli hostages and their families, it represents a potential path to their release. Regionally, a successful ceasefire could de-escalate broader tensions, preventing wider conflict, emphasized analysts at the International Crisis Group.
• UN Security Council resolutions are legally binding under international law, obligating member states to comply. This resolution reinforces international humanitarian law, particularly regarding civilian protection and aid provision. Non-compliance could lead to further international pressure or sanctions, a legal expert told the BBC.
• Many experts view the resolution as a crucial step but acknowledge significant obstacles. Analysts at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace suggest deep mistrust between Israel and Hamas, coupled with internal political pressures, could jeopardize the fragile agreement. Sustained international pressure will be key.