Thank you, Mr. President, and I thank Secretary-General Guterres for his briefing earlier.
A ceasefire and hostage release deal was long overdue. Thanks to the efforts of Qatar, Egypt, and the United States, the sides have reached an agreement consistent with resolution 2735 to end the conflict that Hamas set into motion more than 470 days ago.
"This deal will halt the fighting in Gaza, surge much needed-humanitarian assistance to Palestinian civilians, and most importantly reunite the hostages with their families after more than 15 months in captivity," said a representative at a UN Security Council briefing. The deal is attributed to extreme pressure on Hamas and changes in regional dynamics following a ceasefire in Lebanon and weakening of Iran.
The conflict should have ended long ago. "We must never forget the lives taken as a result of the brutal Hamas terrorist attack on October 7," emphasized during the briefing. It was highlighted that Hamas weaponized civilian infrastructure like schools and hospitals for military purposes while portraying itself as a victim to gain international sympathy.
Recent statements from Palestinian leadership were acknowledged for emphasizing how "Hamas is placing the interests of Tehran over that of the Palestinian people." Israel's conflict is with Hamas, not Palestinian civilians who are often caught in harm's way due to decisions made by Hamas.
Now is seen as a crucial time for all parties involved to ensure aid reaches those in need throughout Gaza. Countries are urged to support this effort through funding and resources. The United States-, Qatari-, and Egyptian-mediated ceasefire is considered a starting point toward security, freedom, and dignity for both Palestinians and Israelis.
Despite challenges faced during negotiations, there is now an opportunity to transform the Middle East significantly. The statement concluded with an assurance: "The United States will do everything in its power to help Israelis and Palestinians seize this moment together."
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