USA (Washington Insider Magazine)— US President Joe Biden on Friday offered a new three-phase Israeli proposal designed to cease the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The plan, which includes a ceasefire and the release of hostages held by Hamas, was announced during a speech at the White House in his most emphatic attempt yet to broker an agreement that would bring an end to the conflict.
The move comes after a new wave of international condemnation of Israel’s conduct of the war against Hamas following a deadly strike and ground operations in the city of Rafah in southern Gaza, where more than 1mn displaced Palestinians have been sheltering.
Phase One: Immediate Ceasefire and Hostage Release
The initial phase calls for a “total and complete ceasefire” lasting six weeks, coupled with the withdrawal of Israeli forces from all populated areas of Gaza. In exchange, Hamas would release several hostages captured during the October 7 attacks on Israel. This group includes women, the elderly, and the wounded, along with the remains of some murdered hostages. Additionally, American hostages held by Hamas would be freed. President Biden stressed the importance of these releases, stating, “We want you home.”
According to Noticias24carabobo, during this period, hundreds of Palestinian prisoners would be released, and Palestinian civilians would be allowed to return to their homes and neighborhoods across Gaza. Humanitarian aid would be significantly increased to 600 trucks per day, with the international community providing temporary shelters and housing units.
Phase Two: Negotiations for Permanent End to Hostilities
In the second phase, also lasting six weeks, Israeli forces would completely withdraw from Gaza. Hamas would then release all remaining living hostages, including male Israeli soldiers. This phase aims to extend the ceasefire as negotiations continue towards a permanent cessation of hostilities.
Phase Three: Reconstruction and Stabilization
The final phase involves a comprehensive reconstruction and stabilization plan for Gaza, potentially taking three to five years. This effort, supported by the United States and the international community, would focus on rebuilding schools, hospitals, residences, and other vital infrastructure. Biden assured that regional partners would be engaged to prevent the rearmament of Hamas.
Hamas’ Response and International Reactions
Hamas has expressed a good attitude toward the proposal, describing it “positive,” particularly valuing the points related to a permanent ceasefire, withdrawal of Israeli forces, reconstruction, and prisoner exchange. However, the group’s political chief, Ismail Haniyeh, reiterated that their main demands, such as a complete Israeli withdrawal from Palestinian territory, remain non-negotiable.
UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres expressed hope that these recent developments might lead to a lasting peace agreement, according to his spokesman, Stéphane Dujarric.
Humanitarian Crisis and Border Issues
The humanitarian crisis in Gaza remains dire, with substantial changes in delivering aid. The Rafah crossing border gate, which is essential for humanitarian supplies, has been a source of conflict between Egypt and Israel. The UN routinely cautions of a potential famine in Gaza, indicating that aid access to the population is insufficient to meet their needs.