Hamas welcomes UNSC resolution for Gaza ceasefire

CAIRO: Hamas welcomed on Monday a UN Security Council resolution backing a proposal for a ceasefire in Gaza, saying it is ready to cooperate with mediators over implementing the principles of the plan.

“Hamas welcomes what is included in the Security Council resolution that affirmed the permanent ceasefire in Gaza, the complete withdrawal, the prisoners’ exchange, the reconstruction, the return of the displaced to their areas of residence, the rejection of any demographic change or reduction in the area of the Gaza Strip, and the delivery of needed aid to our people in the Strip,” the militant group said in a statement.

Hamas also said it was willing to engage in indirect negotiations over implementing the principles “that are consistent with the demands of our people and resistance.”

The U.N. Security Council on Monday adopted a U.S.-drafted resolution backing a proposal outlined by President Joe Biden for a ceasefire in Gaza.

Russia abstained from the vote, while the remaining 14 council members voted in favor. The U.S. had finalized its text on Sunday after six days of negotiations among council members.