The UN has passed a draft resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza to last until the end of Ramadan in two weeks’ time, possibly leading to a permanent ceasefire. The resolution was backed by Russia, China and by the 22-nation Arab Group. This is the first time that the security council managed to pass a ceasefire resolution, after all the others were vetoed.
The UN resolution is highly unlikely to result in the release of hostages by Hamas
The non-binding resolution calls for the ceasefire ‘to be respected by all parties’ and demands ‘the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages.’ It does not call for Hamas to surrender control over Gaza, which is Israel’s primary goal, in addition to the release of hostages.
The resolution has passed during ongoing negotiations between Israel and Hamas over a deal to release Israeli hostages in return for Palestinian prisoners and a ceasefire. The sides have failed to reach a deal, although reports from the last few days have been encouraging.
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