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04/25/2024 03:31:39 pm

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EU, UN Discuss Sustainable Gaza Ceasefire Resolution

Rockets from Gaza

(Photo : REUTERS/Amir Cohen) Light streaks and trails are seen as rockets are launched from Gaza towards Israel before a 72-hour cease fire was due to expire August 13, 2014.

Diplomats of the United Nations (UN) said on Thursday that Britain, Germany, and France are discussing a resolution for a sustainable cease-fire between Israel and Hamas, citing the failure of Cairo talks.

The diplomats spoke in condition of anonymity, describing the mission as complex. According to them, the resolution would include opening up Gaza's borders and the reestablishment of Palestinian authority on the Hamas-controlled territory.

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The said resolution would also prevent Hamas from rearming and digging more tunnels to guarantee security for the Israelis.

The discussion includes an international monitoring mission to warrant the resolution's implementation.  To ensure this, international monitoring will involve the efforts of both the European Union and the UN.

The discussions are in the early stages of development that a timeline is not available yet, a diplomat said. However, the European countries have shared the plan with other council members including Jordan.

Alhough they haven't officially accepted the proposal, Jordan circulated its own call for cease-fire. Dina Kawar, UN Ambassador for Jordan said they are taking their time talking with the U.S. and European representatives to ensure that the resolution "incorporates everybody."

A diplomat said that although crucial, Jordan's proposal does not guarantee security for Israel and means to sustain peace. He added that a proposal endorsed by the Palestinian is essential.

However, the planned resolution brings forth possible sticky consequences. For one, the involvement of UN's most powerful body in the Security Council is a delicate matter.  

In case of violation on either side, it will be forced to enforce castigatory measures that are not in its interest. In addition, they are wary of discouraging efforts to revive the talks led by Egypt.

Meanwhile, UN aid workers call for "a few hours of cease-fire per day" so they can tend to affected families.

To date, more than 2,000 Palestinians and 67 Israelis have died, while 435,000 Palestinians have been displaced.

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