UN Security Council backs plan for Israel-Hamas ceasefire

The UN Security Council adopted a US-drafted resolution backing President Biden’s proposal for a ceasefire between Israel and Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza. Russia abstained, while 14 members voted in favor. Biden outlined a three-phase plan, which the resolution calls on Hamas to accept. It also details the proposal, stating the ceasefire will continue if negotiations take longer than six weeks. The council had previously demanded an immediate ceasefire and hostage release by Hamas amid months of violence that has killed over 37,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza authorities.PHOTO: REUTERS