From the Liveblog of
Friday, August 22, 2014
European powers discussing ceasefire resolution
Add ToI as a Preferred Source on GoogleUN diplomats said late Thursday that Britain, France and Germany are discussing a possible Security Council resolution, calling for a sustainable ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and an international monitoring mission to ensure its implementation.
One diplomat says both Israelis and Palestinians officials have privately suggested Security Council action would be helpful in persuading their constituents to accept measures to end the conflict.
The diplomats say the resolution would include opening up Gaza’s borders and a return of the Palestinian Authority to the territory. It would also include security assurances for the Israelis, including ways to prevent Hamas from acquiring more arms and building more tunnels. The international monitoring mission would likely be a joint-UN-European effort.
The countries have circulated a document entitled “Elements” to diplomats, outlining key points in the potential resolution, Haaretz reports. Major features include PA control of Gaza, a ban of unauthorized weapons sales, reconstruction of Gaza under international supervision, and restarting peace talks based on the 1967 lines.
The document recommends the full reopening of border crossings, and the lifting of the blockade on the Gaza Strip.
Israeli diplomats were briefed on the document, but did not receive a copy themselves. They were eventually able to obtain a copy.
The resolution would condemn “all violence and hostilities directed against civilians, as well as indiscriminate attacks resulting in civilian casualties, and all acts of terrorism.”
— AP, Times of Israel staff
The Times of Israel Community.