By Luis De Jesus
May 31, 2024, 11:55 PM EDT
The president of the United States, Joe Biden, revealed this Friday a new proposal from Israel directed at Hamas, which seeks to achieve a lasting ceasefire in the Gaza Strip in exchange for the release of all hostages held by the group. Palestinian Islamist.
In a press conference from the White House, Biden explained that after intense diplomatic efforts with leaders of Israel, Qatar, Egypt and other Middle Eastern countries, a comprehensive offer was presented that includes three well-defined phases.
“After intense diplomatic activity, carried out by my team, in conversations with leaders of Israel, Qatar, Egypt and other Middle Eastern countries, Israel has offered a new comprehensive proposal for a lasting ceasefire and the release of all the hostages,” he said.
The first phase, which will last six weeks, includes a complete ceasefire, the withdrawal of Israeli troops from all populated areas of the strip and the release of several hostages, including women, the elderly and the wounded, in exchange for the release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, Efe noted.
During this initial period, both sides will need to negotiate the details of the second phase, which provides for the permanent end of hostilities, the release of all remaining hostages, including soldiers, and the complete withdrawal of the Israeli Army from Gaza.
The third and final phase will consist of a broad reconstruction plan for the Palestinian enclave and the return of the bodies of the murdered hostages.
Joe Biden stressed that this proposal is an opportunity for Hamas to demonstrate its commitment to peace, noting that Israel has been able to present this offer due to its recent achievements in degrading the Islamist group’s military capabilities.
The US president also described the plan as the best path to resolving the crisis in Gaza and guaranteeing Israel’s long-term security.
Hamas believes the proposal is “positive”
Hamas responded positively to the announcement and expressed its willingness to constructively deal with any plan that includes a definitive ceasefire, the withdrawal of Israeli forces, the reconstruction of Gaza and the exchange of prisoners.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office confirmed that his negotiators have received authorization to present this draft truce, although he emphasized that the war will not end until Hamas’ military and government capabilities in Gaza are eliminated.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres also expressed hope that this proposal will lead to a lasting peace agreement and reiterated the need for a ceasefire, unrestricted humanitarian access in Gaza and the release of all hostages.
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