Biden Announces Israel Offering 'Comprehensive' New Ceasefire Deal, Including Troop Withdrawal and Hostage Release

US President Joe Biden has announced a significant breakthrough in the ongoing conflict in Gaza, revealing that Israel has presented a three-phase ceasefire proposal to Hamas. The plan, mediated by Qatar, aims to end hostilities, withdraw Israeli troops, and secure the release of hostages in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners.

The proposal's first phase, lasting six weeks, calls for a full and complete ceasefire and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from populated areas of Gaza. During this period, an unspecified number of hostages, including women, the elderly, and the wounded, would be released. In return, Israel would release hundreds of Palestinian prisoners.

In the second phase, the temporary ceasefire would become permanent, and all remaining living hostages would be released. The final phase involves a major reconstruction plan for Gaza and the return of any final remains of hostages to their families.

Why this matters: The proposed ceasefire roadmap has significant implications for the Middle East peace process and global security. If successful, it could lead to a reduction in violence and humanitarian crises, while a failure to reach an agreement could exacerbate the conflict and destabilize the region.

President Biden has urged Hamas to accept the deal, emphasizing the importance of seizing this opportunity to end the conflict. "It's time for this war to end, for the day after to begin," he stated. Biden also called on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to support the plan despite opposition from some coalition members.

The proposal comes after months of intense negotiations and continued violence in Gaza. The conflict, which began with a Hamas-led cross-border attack on October 7, has resulted in over 36,000 Palestinian deaths and 1,200 Israeli deaths. The humanitarian crisis has prompted international calls for a ceasefire and a lasting resolution.

Senior US officials, including CIA Director Bill Burns and National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, have been actively involved in mediating the negotiations. A recent meeting in Paris between Burns, the director of Israel's Mossad, and Qatar's prime minister made progress toward resuming hostage negotiations.

Following Biden's speech, Sullivan is set to meet with diplomats from 17 countries whose citizens are being held hostage by Hamas in Gaza to mobilize international pressure in favor of the deal. This diplomatic effort highlights the global significance of resolving the conflict and securing the release of hostages.

Despite the potential for a breakthrough, challenges remain. Hamas has expressed its readiness for a comprehensive agreement, including a full hostage and prisoner exchange, if Israel halts its military operations in Gaza. However, some factions within Israel's government coalition advocate for continued military action and occupation of Gaza.

President Biden acknowledged these internal divisions, stating, "I know there are those in Israel who will not agree with this plan and will call for the war to continue indefinitely. Some are even in the government coalition, and they've made it clear they want to occupy Gaza. They want to keep fighting for years, and the hostages are not a priority to them."

The international community watches closely, and the proposed ceasefire plan offers a glimmer of hope for ending the prolonged conflict. The coming weeks will be pivotal in determining whether both sides can agree to the terms and move towards a lasting peace.

Key Takeaways

• Israel proposes 3-phase ceasefire plan to Hamas, mediated by Qatar.
• Phase 1: 6-week ceasefire, Israeli troop withdrawal, and hostage release.
• Plan aims to end hostilities, secure hostage release, and rebuild Gaza.
• President Biden urges Hamas to accept deal, citing importance of ending conflict.
• Success depends on Israeli and Hamas agreement, despite internal opposition.