Hamas welcomes UN Security Council decision, vows to continue fight

Hamas issued a statement approving much of the UN Security Council resolution calling for a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of kidnapped Israelis.

Hamas welcomed the resolution’s demands for a permanent ceasefire, IDF withdrawal from Gaza, a prisoner exchange, reconstruction of Gaza, the return of displaced residents, and the rejection of territorial changes.

Hamas also welcomed the call for “humanitarian aid” but emphasized its commitment to continuing efforts to achieve their national goals, including defeating the occupiers and establishing an independent Palestinian state with Jerusalem as its capital.

The UN Security Council voted in favor of a U.S.-proposed resolution supporting President Joe Biden's ceasefire plan. Fourteen out of fifteen members voted for the proposal, with Russia abstaining.

The resolution calls on both parties to implement the ceasefire without delay or conditions and reaffirms the commitment to a two-state solution. Israel opposed the resolution due to a clause stating that if truce negotiations exceed six weeks, the ceasefire will continue as long as negotiations are ongoing.