UNSC adopts US-drafted resolution on Gaza ceasefire

The United Nations Security Council has passed a US-drafted resolution supporting a proposal outlined by President Biden for a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip.

14 council members voted in favour while Russia abstained from the vote. The US had finalized its text after six-day of negotiations among the council.

On May 31, Biden laid out a three-phase ceasefire plan, which he described as an Israeli initiative. Some of the Security Council members have questioned if Israel had accepted the plan to end the Gaza fighting.

The resolution welcomed the new ceasefire proposal and called upon Hamas to also accept it. It urges both countries to immediately implement fully its terms without delay and condition.

Linda Thomas-Greenfield, the US ambassador to the UN  told the council before the vote that they are waiting on Hamas to agree to the ceasefire deal .

He added that with every passing day, suffering continues.

Earlier in March, the United Nations Security Council had demanded for an immediate ceasefire and unconditional release of all hostages held by Hamas.