Four Israeli hostages have been successfully rescued in a daring raid, sparking hope for more releases as President Joe Biden's proposed ceasefire deal gains traction. The U.N. Security Council has passed a resolution mirroring Biden's plan, which consists of three phases aimed at ending the ongoing conflict.
Hamas has responded to the resolution with a statement expressing readiness to engage in negotiations to implement the proposed principles. The resolution received overwhelming support in the Security Council, with 14 votes in favor and Russia abstaining.
U.S. Ambassador to the U.N., Linda Thomas-Greenfield, emphasized the urgent need for a sustainable end to the fighting, calling for an immediate ceasefire and the release of hostages. Recent video footage shows the heroic rescue of three Israeli hostages by the IDF, with a total of four hostages now safe.
If the resolution is implemented, more Israeli hostages could be brought home through potential prisoner-hostage exchanges, similar to previous agreements. The first phase of the deal, lasting six weeks, would focus on delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza and require Israel to withdraw from populated areas.
The U.S. mission to the U.N. highlighted the importance of implementing the deal to alleviate the suffering of civilians in Gaza and bring relief to the hostages and their families. Should negotiations fail to reach a permanent ceasefire after six weeks, the temporary ceasefire would remain in place as talks continue.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken is actively involved in the region, working with Egypt and Qatar to facilitate the proposed ceasefire. The international community is hopeful that the implementation of the plan will lead to a lasting peace and the safe return of more hostages.
