On Tuesday, the United States and 16 other nations called on Hamas and Israel to come to an agreement for a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages.
Last week, U.S. President Joe Biden presented a proposed agreement that includes a six-week truce. As per the agreement, Israeli forces would withdraw from populated areas in Gaza while Hamas would release hostages who are women, children, and elderly individuals.
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The nations have urged Hamas to take immediate action and close the agreement that Israel has put forward. They have emphasized that time is of the essence and have called for the release of their citizens to begin. “There is no time to waste. We call on Hamas to close this agreement, which Israel is prepared to move ahead with, and start the process of freeing our citizens,” the nations stated.
According to the national leaders who are advocating for the deal, if Hamas agrees to it, Israel is prepared to proceed with it. This would result in an instant ceasefire and the rehabilitation of Gaza. Moreover, it would provide security assurances for both Israelis and Palestinians and offer opportunities for a two-state solution, ultimately leading to a more long-lasting peace.
The 17-nation joint statement has urged the leaders of Israel and Hamas to make the required final compromises to bring an end to the war and provide relief to the families of hostages, as well as civilians affected by the conflict. “This deal marks a crucial moment, and we implore both sides to come together and close the deal,” the statement read. The joint statement added that the deal is the necessary starting point towards ending the ongoing conflict and bringing peace to the region.
In the next stage of the plan, Hamas would release all of the hostages they are holding, including male soldiers, while Israel would release Palestinian prisoners in return.
In order to bring closure to the tragic hostage situation, the last step involves repatriating the remains of the deceased hostages to Israel. Additionally, Gaza will undergo a comprehensive reconstruction plan, with Palestinian leaders collaborating with the United States, Arab Nations, and Israel to ensure that Hamas is not able to re-arm itself.
In response, Netanyahu made it clear that a permanent cease-fire in Gaza would not be possible until Hamas’ military and governing capabilities were completely dismantled.
Yair Lapid, the opposition leader in Israel, has expressed support for President Biden’s call for a truce in Gaza.
Lapid offered assurance to Netanyahu regarding his political apprehensions about accepting the ceasefire agreement. “Netanyahu has our support for a hostage-release agreement, provided that Ben Gvir and Smotrich are not part of the government,” Lapid stated.
