WASHINGTON DC, USA — US President Joe Biden has announced that Israel has proposed a three-part plan aimed at achieving a permanent cease-fire in the Gaza Strip and securing the release of all hostages who have been held there for the past eight months.
The announcement comes as Biden’s administration faces significant opposition from the far-left wing of the Democratic Party amid the ongoing general election.
Speaking from the White House on Friday, May 31, 2024, Biden explained that his team’s intensive diplomatic efforts resulted in the proposal.
The plan has been communicated to Hamas through Qatar, a key mediator in the negotiations.
The first phase of the plan involves a six-week complete cease-fire, the withdrawal of Israeli forces from populated areas in Gaza, and the release of women and children held hostage.
This stage also includes a substantial increase in humanitarian aid, with 600 trucks carrying assistance into Gaza daily.
“I’ll be honest with you, there are a number of things to be negotiated to move from phase one to phase two,” Biden acknowledged, noting that the transition to the second phase would depend on successful negotiations during the initial period.
The second phase calls for the release of all living hostages in exchange for Palestinians imprisoned in Israel. The final phase includes a major reconstruction plan for Gaza and the return of the remains of deceased hostages to their families.
“I’ve urged the leadership in Israel to stand behind this deal, regardless of whatever [political] pressure comes,” Biden emphasized.
Israeli officials have not commented on the specific terms outlined by Biden.
However, a statement from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu‘s office indicated that he had authorized the government’s negotiating team to “present an outline” focusing on the return of abductees and the elimination of Hamas’ military and governmental capabilities.
Netanyahu has faced intense pressure from the families of hostages, who argue that the government is not doing enough to secure their return.
Hamas has not immediately responded to the proposal.
On Thursday, the group stated that it would be prepared “to reach a complete agreement that includes a comprehensive exchange deal” if Israel halts its military actions in Gaza.
Biden’s announcement follows recent Israeli military advances into the southern Gaza city of Rafah and a deadly airstrike that killed dozens of Palestinians.
The president has expressed frustration with Netanyahu in recent months but has maintained U.S. support for Israel.
The conflict, triggered by Hamas’ surprise attack on Israel on October 7, which resulted in the deaths of around 1,200 Israelis and the kidnapping of 240 individuals, has led to significant casualties.
Officials in Gaza report that approximately 36,000 Palestinians have been killed since the war began.
International pressure on Israel has intensified, with the International Court of Justice ordering an immediate halt to military operations in Rafah and the International Criminal Court seeking arrest warrants for Netanyahu, Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, and Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar over alleged war crimes.
Recent diplomatic moves by Spain, Norway, and Ireland to formally recognize a Palestinian state have further isolated Israel on the global stage.
As the situation continues to unfold, the proposed plan offers a potential path toward peace, contingent on the successful negotiation and implementation of its phases.
