US President Joe Biden announced on Friday the terms of a three-phase proposal by Israel for a ceasefire in Gaza, aiming to ensure what he called a “long-standing peace for Palestinians and Israel.”
Biden explained that the first phase involves a complete ceasefire, the withdrawal of Israeli forces from the populated areas in Gaza, the exchange of hostages for Palestinian prisoners, and the return of refugees to their homes. Additionally, an influx of humanitarian aid would commence, with 600 trucks delivering daily supplies.
The second phase focuses on negotiating a permanent end to hostilities, ensuring that the ceasefire remains as long as talks continue. This phase aims to secure the release of all hostages and provide a complete withdrawal of Israeli forces, conditional on Hamas accepting the terms.
The final phase involves a substantial reconstruction effort in Gaza, supported by the international community, to rebuild homes, schools, and hospitals, ensuring that Hamas cannot re-arm. Biden highlighted the broader implications of the deal, including potential normalization agreements between Israel and other Arab nations, such as Saudi Arabia, and the integration of Israel into a regional security network. He urged all parties to consider and embrace this opportunity for a lasting peace against what he called the perils of an indefinite conflict.
Nevertheless, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejected the notion of a lasting ceasefire in Gaza, insisting that the enduring conditions for ending the conflict must be met first. This stance contradicts the proposal that, according to Biden, originated from Israel.
The proposal comes at a time when Netanyahu is facing increasing pressure domestically, with families of the hostages spearheading protests urging the government to act, and far-right ministers within his government threatening to disrupt the coalition if he accepts the terms.