France Proposes UN Security Council Resolution for Permanent Ceasefire in Gaza
France has taken a significant step in addressing the ongoing crisis in Gaza by announcing a comprehensive UN Security Council draft resolution that calls for a permanent ceasefire in the region. The resolution, presented by Nicolas de Riviere, France’s permanent representative to the UN, aims to tackle pressing issues and ensure the protection of civilians and humanitarian personnel in Gaza.
Immediate Ceasefire and Humanitarian Access
The draft resolution emphasizes the need for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza without a time limitation. It also demands the immediate, unconditional release of all hostages held by Hamas and other terrorist groups. Additionally, the resolution calls for full humanitarian access to the civilian population of Gaza, highlighting the importance of delivering essential aid to those in need.
Monitoring Ceasefire and Accountability
In addition to calling for a ceasefire, the resolution requests the UN secretary general to develop options for a UN role in monitoring the ceasefire in Gaza. It also condemns terrorist attacks by Hamas and other groups, including sexual violence used as a weapon of war. The resolution stresses the importance of holding perpetrators of such crimes accountable.
Reconstruction, Recovery, and Governance
The French resolution addresses the need for reconstruction, recovery, and governance in Gaza. It emphasizes the importance of re-establishing effective control over the Gaza Strip by the Palestinian Authority and ensuring contiguity with Jerusalem and the West Bank. The resolution also calls on the international community to support the Palestinian Authority as it assumes its responsibilities in Gaza.
Two-State Solution and Negotiated Settlement
France’s draft resolution urges the international community to intensify efforts towards achieving a comprehensive, just, and peaceful solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. It emphasizes the need for a negotiated settlement that leads to a two-state solution where Israel and Palestine can coexist peacefully within secure and recognized borders based on the 1967 lines. The resolution also highlights the importance of addressing security concerns for both Israel and Palestine.
Next Steps and International Support
France presented the draft resolution to other members of the UN Security Council, signaling its commitment to finding a lasting solution to the crisis in Gaza. While no timeline for the vote has been set yet, the resolution underscores the urgency of taking decisive and irreversible measures towards peace and stability in the region.
In conclusion, France’s proposal for a permanent ceasefire in Gaza through a UN Security Council resolution is a significant step towards addressing the root causes of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. By emphasizing humanitarian access, accountability for crimes, and a two-state solution, the resolution sets a path towards lasting peace and stability in the region. It is now up to the international community to support these efforts and work towards a just and peaceful resolution to the crisis in Gaza.