President Biden has urged Hamas to accept a new peace deal from Israel, but details remain uncertain and some are skeptical about its potential effectiveness.
President Joe Biden has called for an end to the Israel-Hamas conflict, urging Hamas to accept a proposed peace deal from Israel. However, the details of the agreement remain unclear, and skepticism persists among some observers.
In a statement, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office confirmed the proposal, emphasizing the country's commitment to securing the release of hostages. The statement outlined a conditional transition between stages to ensure adherence to principles.
Meanwhile, Israeli officials have criticized Biden's suggestion of withholding weapons, claiming it could lead to civilian casualties in Gaza. Congress responded by inviting Netanyahu to address a joint session of the House and Senate, highlighting the shared challenges facing the two nations.
Biden's address from the White House laid out a three-tiered ceasefire plan, allegedly transmitted to Hamas through Qatar. Confusion ensued regarding potential discrepancies between plans mentioned by Biden and Netanyahu, but the National Security Council clarified that they referred to the same proposal.
The plan comprises a six-week initial phase involving the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza and the release of hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners and the return of deceased hostage remains. Additionally, humanitarian aid would be provided to Gaza.
In Phase Two, negotiations would continue towards the release of remaining hostages, and Phase Three would entail a comprehensive reconstruction plan for Gaza. Biden emphasized the need for voices advocating peace and urged everyone to support the deal.
However, critics have expressed concerns, doubting the deal's ability to eliminate Hamas's threat and potentially allowing them to rebuild. Richard Goldberg of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies suggested the proposal could provide Hamas with an escape route while bolstering Hezbollah's threat on Israel's northern border.
Skepticism stems from Hamas's previous rejection of peace proposals, its ongoing rocket attacks on Israel, and its close ties to Iran. Questions linger about the enforceability of the ceasefire and the long-term sustainability of any agreement.
As the situation evolves, it remains to be seen whether the proposed deal will pave the way for lasting peace or face further obstacles and skepticism.
