U.S. President Joe Biden on Friday announced a new proposal for a Gaza ceasefire in exchange for the release of hostages, calling on Hamas to agree to the plan as the best route to end the ongoing conflict. The plan, negotiated in detail and backed by Israel, includes three phases: a six-week ceasefire with hostages and prisoners exchanged, followed by negotiations for a permanent end to hostilities, and finally, a major reconstruction plan for Gaza.
The proposal comes after Israel’s military gains and rising pressure on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government. While Biden’s speech urged Israeli leadership to support the ceasefire plan, some factions in Israel oppose it, favoring prolonged military action. Biden emphasized the need for this moment to be seized to prevent further escalation.
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The U.S. is actively engaging with international mediators, including Qatar, Egypt, and others, to push for Hamas’ acceptance of the ceasefire. This proposal has drawn attention due to its detailed structure and its potential to bring an end to the conflict after months of devastating violence.
