UN Security Council adopts resolution calling for Hamas to accept Israeli-backed ceasefire

Phase one includes an “immediate, full, and complete ceasefire with the release of hostages including women, the elderly and the wounded, the return of the remains of some hostages who have been killed, and the exchange of Palestinian prisoners”.

Phase two would see a permanent end to hostilities “in exchange for the release of all other hostages still in Gaza, and a full withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza”.

In phase three, “a major multi-year reconstruction plan for Gaza” would begin and the remains of any deceased hostages still in the Strip would be returned to Israel.

US Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield said that the diplomatic community was: “united behind a deal that will save lives and help Palestinian civilians in Gaza start to rebuild and heal... and a deal that will reunite hostages with their families after eight months in captivity.”

Foreign Secretary David Cameron welcomed the resolution, saying it was “an important step to bringing an end to the conflict.”