Anti-Israel Protesters Chant "Long Live Intifada" in New York, Hamas Accepts Cease-fire Resolution

Anti-Israel protesters gathered in New York to voice their support for the Palestinian cause, with some chanting "Long live intifada." Meanwhile, Hamas has accepted a U.N. Security Council cease-fire resolution aimed at ending the Gaza conflict.

Amidst the ongoing conflict in Gaza, anti-Israel protesters took to the streets of New York, chanting "Long live intifada" and waving Palestinian flags. The demonstration outside the Nova Music Festival Exhibition drew attention to the plight of Palestinians living under Israeli occupation.

On the diplomatic front, Hamas has signaled its willingness to accept a cease-fire resolution adopted by the U.N. Security Council. Senior Hamas official Sami Abu Zuhri confirmed the group's decision to accept the resolution, which calls for an immediate end to hostilities between Hamas and Israel.

Abu Zuhri emphasized that the U.S. administration has a crucial role in ensuring Israel's compliance with the resolution and the implementation of a lasting cease-fire. He noted that the Biden administration faces a "real test" in persuading Israel to fulfill its obligations under the agreement.

Another senior Hamas leader, Osama Hamdan, echoed calls for a permanent cease-fire and expressed readiness for a fair prisoner exchange deal. However, he also raised concerns about certain aspects of the U.N. resolution and criticized Secretary of State Antony Blinken for allegedly prioritizing Israel's wishes.

The U.S.-sponsored resolution outlines a three-phase plan to end the Israeli air and ground war against Hamas in Gaza. The first phase involves an immediate six-week cease-fire, the release of hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners, and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from populated areas in Gaza.

Phase two aims for a permanent end to hostilities, with the release of all remaining hostages in Gaza and a full Israeli withdrawal. Finally, phase three focuses on a major multi-year reconstruction plan for Gaza and the return of deceased hostage remains to their families.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken, during his visit to Israel, urged Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to accept the plan for postwar Gaza. Blinken pushed for increased international pressure on Hamas to agree to the cease-fire proposal. Netanyahu has expressed skepticism over the deal, reiterating Israel's commitment to destroying Hamas.

Blinken emphasized the international support for the U.N. resolution, noting its rare level of consensus among Security Council members. He stressed that the onus now lies with Hamas to decide whether to move forward with the proposal.

He also highlighted the need to address long-term issues, including the prevention of Hamas's control over Gaza and the establishment of enduring security for Israel. Blinken believes that the implementation of the plan could lead to such a future.

However, the plan's success hinges on Hamas's acceptance. If the group rejects the proposal, the responsibility for the ongoing war will fall upon them, Blinken said.

The announcement of Hamas's acceptance of the cease-fire resolution has been met with cautious optimism. However, its official confirmation remains pending. Should Hamas formally endorse the plan, it would represent a significant step towards ending the bloodshed in Gaza and paving the way for a more stable future.