Shahin: UN resolution is just the beginning, Palestinian statehood is key

Varsen Aghabekian Shaheen, the Palestinian foreign minister, described Monday's UN vote as a necessary first step towards ending the Gaza war.

The resolution, proposed by the United States, authorises the presence of international security forces in addition to supporting President Donald Trump's peace plan. It also includes the creation of a Peace Council to oversee the reconstruction of the region.

During her visit to Manila, Shaheen said that although the plan does not offer clear guarantees of Palestinian independence, it opens the way for further negotiations that must respect international law. She also noted the need to address important issues such as self-determination and future full Palestinian independence.

The Palestinian Authority welcomed the resolution, but its precise role remains unclear. A number of countries have called for its active involvement, but Israel has refused to participate.

Meanwhile, the ceasefire between Hamas and Israel, in force since 10 October, remains in place - albeit accompanied by accusations of violations.

(reuters, swag)