President Joe Biden revealed a three-phase deal proposed by Israel to Hamas militants aimed at bringing an end to the nearly 8-month-old Mideast war and securing the release of remaining hostages in Gaza. Biden expressed confidence that Hamas is currently incapable of launching another large-scale attack on Israel and urged both parties to reach an agreement for an extended cease-fire.
The proposed deal consists of three phases. The first phase, lasting six weeks, includes a full cease-fire, the withdrawal of Israeli forces from populated areas in Gaza, and the release of certain hostages such as women, the elderly, and the wounded. In return, hundreds of Palestinian prisoners would be released, American hostages would be freed, and the remains of deceased hostages would be returned to their families. Additionally, humanitarian aid would be increased, with 600 trucks permitted to enter Gaza daily.
The second phase involves the release of all remaining living hostages, including male soldiers, and the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. If Hamas upholds its commitments, the temporary cease-fire would transition into a permanent cessation of hostilities, according to the Israeli proposals.
The third phase focuses on the reconstruction of Gaza, which has suffered extensive damage during the conflict and requires significant rebuilding efforts. Biden acknowledged the challenges of maintaining the deal's momentum, citing the need to negotiate various details to progress from the first phase to the second.
Meanwhile, the Israeli military has expanded its offensive in southern Gaza, with forces operating in central parts of Rafah. Biden described the current situation as a critical moment and emphasized that Hamas has expressed a desire for a cease-fire. The proposed phased deal presents an opportunity for Hamas to demonstrate its commitment to peace.
The conflict between Israel and Hamas began following an attack by Hamas militants on southern Israel, resulting in casualties and the abduction of hostages. Cease-fire negotiations stalled earlier this month due to disagreements over guarantees for ending the war and the complete withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza, conditions that Hamas insists on for the release of all hostages, a demand that Israel has rejected.
