U.S. President Joe Biden has urged Hamas to accept Israel’s latest proposal to end the ongoing conflict in Gaza, declaring, “It is time for this war to end.” He made this statement during a conversation with reporters at the White House on Friday.
President Biden outlined that the proposal consists of three phases designed to achieve a full ceasefire in Gaza, stressing the urgency of making a decisive move towards peace. Addressing Hamas, he remarked, “Hamas always claims they want a ceasefire. Now they have the chance to prove whether they truly want it.”
So, what exactly does Israel’s new proposal entail? Let’s explore the details:
Phase 1:
– A six-week ceasefire will be established.
– Israeli troops will withdraw from all populated areas of Gaza.
– Hamas will release a specified number of hostages, including women, the elderly, and the injured. In return, several hundred prisoners held in Israel will be freed.
– The bodies of hostages who died in Hamas custody will be returned to their families.
– Civilians in Gaza will be allowed to return to their homes.
– Humanitarian aid will be significantly increased, with 600 trucks of aid permitted to enter Gaza daily.
– The international community will arrange for thousands of temporary shelters for the people of Gaza.
– During the ceasefire, peace talks mediated by the United States and Qatar will continue. Success in these talks will lead to the next phase.
Phase 2:
– Hamas will release the remaining living hostages, including male soldiers.
– All remaining Israeli troops will withdraw from the Gaza Strip.
– The ceasefire will be elevated to a “permanent cessation of hostilities.”
Phase 3:
– The process of returning hostages will be fully completed.
– A major “reconstruction plan” for Gaza will be initiated, focusing on rebuilding houses, schools, and hospitals with aid from the U.S. and the international community.
This comprehensive plan aims to not only end hostilities but also to pave the way for rebuilding and long-term peace in the region.
