NEW YORK, (PIC)
The UN Security Council (UNSC) adopted a resolution on Monday aimed at reaching a comprehensive ceasefire deal in three phases to end the Israeli aggression on Gaza.
The resolution was adopted by a large majority, with 14 votes in favor and Russia abstaining.
The motion envisages a three-phase approach to ensure a lasting and comprehensive end to the aggression.
Phase one includes an “immediate, full, and complete ceasefire with the release of captives, including women, the elderly, and the wounded, the return of the remains of some captives who have been killed, and the exchange of Palestinian prisoners.”
It 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 Israeli captives 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 and the remains of any deceased captives still in the Strip would be returned to Israel.
The Council also underlined the proposal’s provision that if negotiations take longer than six weeks for phase one, the ceasefire will continue as long as negotiations continue.
