On Friday, President Joe Biden revealed that Israel has put forward a comprehensive three-part proposal aimed at bringing an end to the conflict in Gaza and securing the release of all hostages.
During a recent address, Biden revealed that his administration had engaged in intense diplomacy to develop the proposal. The plan has been transmitted to Hamas through Qatar; however, the designated terrorist organization has yet to provide a response.
The first stage also encompasses provisions for displaced Palestinians to be able to return to their original homes.
In his statement, Biden highlighted that there are still several important aspects that need to be negotiated between Israel and Hamas. These details must be addressed before proceeding to the next phase of the negotiations. This next phase involves the release of all living hostages, including male soldiers, in exchange for Palestinians who are currently being held in Israel.
According to Biden, the cease-fire will be extended if phase one negotiations surpass the six-week mark.
In the final phase, the focus is on two important aspects: the return of the remains of the deceased hostages and the implementation of a comprehensive reconstruction plan for Gaza. This crucial stage requires collaboration between the United States, Arab nations, and Israeli and Palestinian leaders. The main objective is to prevent Hamas from rearming itself, ensuring a more stable and secure future for the region.
According to the speaker, the people of Israel can confidently make this offer without compromising their own security. He emphasized that Hamas has been severely weakened over the past eight months, to the point where they are no longer capable of carrying out another attack similar to the one that occurred on October 7th. The speaker believes that this is one of Israel’s main objectives in the war, and considers it a just and righteous cause.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office has issued a statement authorizing the government to present an outline aimed at achieving the return of all abducted individuals and the complete dismantlement of Hamas’ military and governmental capabilities.
Netanyahu has been making continuous promises to eradicate Hamas since October 7th. However, he has been facing mounting pressure from the families of the hostages and members of his coalition who consider his efforts insufficient in securing their release.
Members of Netanyahu’s cabinet on the far-right, on the other hand, are in favor of perpetuating the war and maintaining full control over Gaza.
Just days after the city of Rafah was relentlessly targeted by Israeli forces, President Biden made his announcement. This city served as a refuge for countless Palestinians seeking safety from the ongoing conflict.
Despite Biden’s urging and the halt of a large shipment of weapons to Israel earlier this month, Israel persisted in its siege of Rafah.
In spite of expressing his frustrations with Netanyahu openly, Biden reaffirmed his unwavering dedication to Israel, which he considers to be a lifelong commitment.
“We must take a moment to reflect on the consequences of letting this opportunity slip away,” he urged. “If we allow ourselves to be consumed by an endless cycle of warfare, driven by an elusive desire for absolute triumph, both Israel and Gaza will suffer the consequences.”