Hamas has accepted the UN Security Council’s decision for a ceasefire in the Gaza war, Sami Abu Zuhri, a member of the Islamic organisation, told Reuters. Hamas is ready to negotiate the details of the implementation of the ceasefire, he said, stressing that Washington has a responsibility to ensure that Israel abides by the decision.
Abu Zuhri made it clear that Hamas accepts the decision for the ceasefire, the withdrawal of Israeli forces and the exchange of hostages and Palestinian prisoners. “The US administration is facing a real test in fulfilling its commitments,” Zuhri said. “It has an obligation to force the occupying forces to immediately end the war in accordance with the UN Security Council’s decision.”
Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, on a new tour of the region to promote the ceasefire plan, said from Tel Aviv that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had reaffirmed his commitment to a ceasefire in Gaza. Blinken described Hamas’s announcement in favour of the UN Security Council decision as an “encouraging message”.
Blinken also said that discussions on the future of the Palestinian enclave after the implementation of the ceasefire will continue today and in the coming days. “It is important to have these plans,” the US Secretary of State stressed, underlining the need for a sustainable solution that ensures the security and prosperity of both Israelis and Palestinians.
Hamas’ acceptance of the ceasefire and Israel’s commitment to it are significant steps towards peace in the Middle East. However, the success of the ceasefire depends on the active participation and commitment of all parties. The international community, led by the United States, has a critical role to play in securing peace and resolving the ongoing conflicts in the region.
