Gaza Strip, (11 June 2024) – The Palestinian armed group Hamas has expressed approval of the UN Security Council's endorsement of a US-proposed ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. This sentiment is echoed by Islamic Jihad and the Palestinian Authority, led by President Mahmoud Abbas.

In an official statement, Hamas indicated its readiness to collaborate with mediators to implement the proposed Gaza ceasefire plan. The group emphasized its willingness to accept a deal that ensures a secure end to the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

Conversely, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has declared his commitment to continuing military actions against Hamas.

The Security Council's proposals, as welcomed by Hamas, include:

  • A permanent ceasefire in Gaza
  • Complete withdrawal of Israeli forces
  • Exchange of prisoners
  • Reconstruction of Gaza
  • Return of displaced people to their homes
  • Rejection of demographic changes or reduction of Gaza's territory
  • Provision of necessary assistance to the people of Gaza

Hamas stated that these principles align with the demands of their people and resistance forces and expressed a desire to engage in indirect negotiations through mediators to bring these principles to fruition.

Senior Hamas leader Sami Abu Zuhri confirmed the group's readiness to negotiate the ceasefire proposal but stressed that the United States must ensure Israel's compliance. He remarked that compelling Israel to accept the Security Council resolution would test the US's commitment.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken welcomed Hamas's statement but called for a definitive message from the Hamas faction based in Gaza.

President Joe Biden had outlined the ceasefire agreement last month, proposing a three-phase cessation of hostilities leading to a permanent peace. This proposal has garnered support from several governments and the G7 alliance, and was approved by the Security Council on Monday with a 14-0 vote, with Russia abstaining.

Israel maintains that it will only agree to a temporary ceasefire until Hamas is defeated, while Hamas insists it will not accept any agreement that does not guarantee an end to the war.

The Gaza Strip's health officials report that more than 37,000 Palestinians have been killed in Israel's eight-month offensive in the territory.