In a significant move, the United Nations Security Council has unanimously endorsed a resolution that supports a ceasefire plan aimed at bringing an end to the long-standing conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. This marks the first time the Security Council has backed such a plan since the conflict erupted eight months ago.

The resolution, sponsored by the United States, welcomes the ceasefire proposal announced by President Joe Biden, which Israel has accepted. It calls on Hamas, the militant Palestinian group, to also accept the three-phase plan. Initially, Hamas stated that it viewed the proposal "positively," and it has now responded to the adoption of the resolution by expressing its willingness to work with mediators in indirect negotiations with Israel to implement the plan. However, Hamas emphasized that it will continue its struggle to end the Israeli occupation and establish a fully sovereign Palestinian state.

The resolution underscores the urgency for both Israel and Hamas to "fully implement its terms without delay and without condition." The U.S. Ambassador to the UN, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, emphasized that the council has sent a clear message to Hamas to accept the ceasefire deal, reiterating that Israel has already accepted it, and it has gained support from nations worldwide. She highlighted that the fighting could cease immediately if Hamas were to do the same.

While the adoption of the resolution puts added pressure on both parties to accept the proposed ceasefire plan, it remains uncertain whether Israel and Hamas will ultimately agree to it. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has expressed the view that talks of a permanent ceasefire should only occur after dismantling Hamas' military and governing capabilities, making it a nonstarter to discuss a permanent end to hostilities before these conditions are met.

To discuss the proposed ceasefire deal, leaders of Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad held a meeting in Qatar earlier on Monday. They emphasized that any agreement must lead to a permanent ceasefire, a complete Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, an end to the Israeli siege of the region, reconstruction efforts, and an exchange of hostages detained in Gaza and Palestinians held in Israeli jails.

The approval of this resolution is seen as a glimmer of hope for the Palestinians, as it provides an opportunity for diplomacy to reach an agreement that can end the aggression and suffering endured by the Palestinian people. The ongoing diplomatic efforts by Egypt, Qatar, and the United States are recognized for their importance in achieving a comprehensive ceasefire deal.

The war that began with Hamas' surprise attack in southern Israel on October 7 has caused immense human suffering. Approximately 1,200 people, mainly Israeli civilians, were killed, and about 250 others were taken hostage. The Israeli military offensive has resulted in over 36,700 Palestinian deaths and over 83,000 injuries. Moreover, around 80% of Gaza's infrastructure has been destroyed.

As part of the three-phase ceasefire plan, the resolution calls for the release of hostages and prisoners, the withdrawal of Israeli forces from populated areas in Gaza, as well as the safe distribution of humanitarian assistance. The ultimate goal is to achieve a negotiated two-state solution where Israel and Palestine can coexist peacefully within secure and recognized borders.

The resolution's endorsement by the Security Council sends a strong signal that the international community is committed to bringing an end to the protracted conflict and ensuring the well-being and security of both Israelis and Palestinians. With the approval in place, it is now up to Israel and Hamas to decide whether they will seize this opportunity for peace.