Biden Urges Hamas to Accept Historic Ceasefire Proposal

In a recent address, President Joe Biden called Israel’s new ceasefire offer a historic opportunity for Hamas, urging the militant group to take the deal to end the ongoing hostilities and begin reconstruction efforts in Gaza. The proposal, which includes a comprehensive three-phase plan, aims to bring lasting peace to the region.

The ceasefire proposal was presented by President Biden on May 31, 2024, during a special address from the White House. The plan involves three distinct phases designed to end the conflict and initiate rebuilding efforts in Gaza. The first phase includes a six-week ceasefire during which Israeli forces would withdraw from densely populated areas in Gaza. This initial period would also see the release of hostages held by Hamas, including women, children, elderly, and injured individuals. In exchange, some Palestinians held in Israeli prisons would also be released. During this phase, humanitarian aid to Gaza would increase significantly, with up to 600 trucks carrying supplies entering the region daily​​​​.

The second phase involves negotiations between Israel and Hamas for a permanent cessation of hostilities. These talks are expected to continue beyond the initial six weeks if necessary, with the ceasefire remaining in place as long as negotiations progress. The ultimate goal is to reach a comprehensive peace agreement that addresses the underlying issues of the conflict​​​​.

The third and final phase focuses on the reconstruction of Gaza. This phase would see significant international involvement, with Arab nations and the broader international community contributing to rebuilding homes, schools, and hospitals destroyed during the conflict. The plan also emphasizes preventing Hamas from rearming and ensuring that reconstruction efforts benefit the Palestinian people directly​​.

During his address, President Biden stressed the importance of seizing this moment for peace. He warned that failing to take this opportunity could result in prolonged conflict, draining economic, military, and human resources, and further isolating Israel on the global stage. “An indefinite war in pursuit of an unidentified notion of total victory will only bog down Israel and Gaza,” Biden stated. He emphasized that this deal could lead to a more secure Israel, with calm restored along its northern border and improved regional integration, including potential normalization of ties with Saudi Arabia​​​​.

Biden highlighted the humanitarian benefits of the proposal, noting that the rebuilding of Gaza would begin immediately with international support. He called on Hamas to prove its commitment to peace by accepting the deal and urged the global community to pressure the group to come to the negotiating table. “Now it’s time to raise your voices and demand Hamas come to the table,” Biden said. “It’s time for this war to end and the day after to begin”​​​​.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has authorized negotiators to present the ceasefire roadmap but insisted that Israel would continue its efforts to eliminate Hamas’ military and administrative capabilities. Netanyahu’s office reiterated that the war would not end until all hostages are returned and Hamas’ capabilities are destroyed​​.

Hamas has responded positively to the proposal, indicating its readiness to engage constructively if the deal includes a permanent ceasefire, the withdrawal of Israeli forces, and reconstruction efforts in Gaza. The group has also called for a genuine prisoner swap as part of the agreement​​​​.

President Biden’s ceasefire proposal represents a significant step towards ending the long-standing conflict between Israel and Hamas. By emphasizing the humanitarian and strategic benefits of the deal, Biden hopes to pave the way for lasting peace and stability in the region. As negotiations progress, the international community will be watching closely to see if this historic opportunity can indeed bring an end to the violence and begin the process of rebuilding and reconciliation in Gaza.