Breakdown of Israel’s Proposed Deal to End Mideast War
WASHINGTON — US President Joe Biden unveiled a comprehensive three-phase plan offered by Israel to Hamas militants, aiming to secure the release of remaining hostages in Gaza and potentially bring an end to the nearly 8-month-old conflict in the Middle East.
Biden asserted that Hamas is currently incapable of executing another large-scale assault on Israel, calling for both parties to agree on the proposal for an extended ceasefire and the liberation of hostages.
The proposed deal, characterized by Biden as “a roadmap to a lasting ceasefire and the freedom of all hostages,” consists of three distinct phases.
Phase one, spanning six weeks, encompasses a total ceasefire in Gaza, the retreat of Israeli forces from densely populated areas, and the liberation of several hostages, including women, the elderly, and the injured, in exchange for numerous Palestinian prisoners. Throughout this initial phase, American hostages would be set free, and the remains of deceased hostages would be repatriated to their families. Humanitarian aid would be ramped up, permitting 600 trucks to enter Gaza daily.
The subsequent phase would entail the release of all remaining living hostages, including male soldiers, alongside a complete withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza. Should Hamas uphold its end of the bargain, the temporary ceasefire would transition into a permanent cessation of hostilities.
The final phase calls for the commencement of a substantial reconstruction effort in Gaza, which requires extensive rebuilding after the war’s devastation. This phase is projected to span three to five years and would receive robust support from the US, the global community, and other undisclosed entities. Additionally, the third phase would involve the exchange of any additional hostage remains still held in Gaza.
Biden underscored the critical nature of this agreement, underscoring the necessity to terminate the conflict and initiate reconstruction endeavors. He acknowledged the hurdles in maintaining momentum with the proposal, particularly regarding key issues such as the ratio of hostages to prisoners during the initial phase.
In response, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office reaffirmed its commitment to pressing ahead with the offensive in Gaza until all military objectives are met, encompassing the safe return of all hostages and the neutralization of Hamas’ capabilities. Nevertheless, Netanyahu granted permission for his negotiating team to outline a strategy for achieving these objectives, specifically focusing on the hostages’ release.
Hamas expressed optimism regarding the proposal and urged Israel to pledge to a permanent ceasefire and complete withdrawal of troops from Gaza.
Biden implored Israeli leaders to throw their weight behind the deal, despite dissent from certain members of Netanyahu’s coalition who advocate for continued military operations over engaging in negotiations with Hamas. — CNN
