Biden's Ceasefire Proposal Faces Resistance, Hamas Remains a Threat

President Biden's three-phase proposal for a ceasefire in Gaza has drawn mixed reactions, with Prime Minister Netanyahu's office stating that Israel's conditions for ending the war have not changed. Hamas, on the other hand, has expressed positive views on the plan.

President Biden's proposal for a ceasefire in Gaza has met with mixed reactions, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office indicating that Israel's goals for the conflict remain unchanged. Hamas, the Palestinian terror group controlling Gaza, has expressed positive views on the plan.

In a speech from the White House, Biden laid out a three-phase roadmap for a permanent ceasefire and the release of all hostages. The proposal includes a full and complete ceasefire, a withdrawal of Israeli forces from all populated areas of Gaza, a release of hostages, and the delivery of humanitarian assistance to Gaza.

Netanyahu's office released a statement shortly after Biden's speech, stating that Israel's conditions for ending the war have not changed. These conditions include the destruction of Hamas's military and governing capabilities, the freeing of all hostages, and ensuring that Gaza no longer poses a threat to Israel.

The statement emphasized that Israel would not agree to a permanent ceasefire before these conditions are fulfilled.

Hamas, the Islamic militant group that controls Gaza, responded positively to Biden's plan. The group welcomed the president's call for a permanent ceasefire, the withdrawal of Israeli forces, and the reconstruction of Gaza.

Critics have expressed concerns about the Biden proposal, arguing that it could potentially lead to a resurgence of Hamas power. Former Trump National Security Council staff member Richard Goldberg stated that Biden's plan repackages a Hamas proposal as a U.S.-endorsed Israeli proposal.

Amidst the ongoing diplomatic efforts, the Israeli military announced that it had taken control of the "Philadelphi Corridor," a strip of land running along the border between Gaza and Egypt. This move aims to weaken Hamas by cutting off its access to tunnels used for smuggling.

Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid urged the government to consider Biden's proposal, stating that it cannot ignore its importance. Lapid highlighted that there is a deal on the table and that the government should consider it, especially in light of the support from opposition parties.

Biden's speech caught many in Israel off guard, given its timing during the Jewish sabbath when many observant Israelis disconnect from technology. Israeli commentators questioned whether Netanyahu's office was aware of the president's plans.

Confusion also arose regarding whether Biden's plan was the same as the one approved by Netanyahu's government or a modified version. A National Security Council spokesperson confirmed that it was the same plan.

Biden's proposal consists of three phases: the first involving a ceasefire, withdrawal of Israeli forces, and release of hostages; the second involving the release of remaining hostages and a permanent ceasefire; and the third involving major reconstruction of Gaza.

Family members of hostages held by Hamas have been closely monitoring the developments, expressing both hope and skepticism about Biden's proposal. They have urged the U.S. government to prioritize the safe return of their loved ones.