Israel has proposed a new ceasefire agreement, which is ready to be implemented immediately, US President Joe Biden said on Friday (May 31). In his speech, the American president stated that the ceasefire plan, proposed by Israel, will be implemented in three stages.
The first phase involves a ‘complete and total’ ceasefire and the withdrawal of IDF soldiers from all residential areas in Gaza. It also includes the release of certain remaining hostages (women, elderly, injured) in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. Every day, 600 trucks with humanitarian aid will enter Gaza, facilitated by the ceasefire. Palestinian residents of Gaza will return to their homes, Biden added.
This phase will last six weeks, with the possibility of an extension if needed. Biden acknowledged that difficult talks will be necessary between the first and second phases.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l-U3w0qou-s
The second phase focuses on the ‘permanent cessation of hostilities’ and the release of the remaining hostages, including soldiers held by Hamas.
The third phase will involve the reconstruction of Gaza, including the return of the remains of hostages who died in Hamas’s custody. Biden emphasized the U.S.’s commitment to achieving a permanent end to the conflict and freeing the hostages. The goal is to create a “better future” for Gaza. ‘Everyone should support this.’
The plan has been communicated to Hamas through Qatar, said Biden. He urged Hamas to support the plan, calling it “a truly decisive moment,” and stated, “Israel has made its proposal and Hamas says it wants a ceasefire—this agreement is an opportunity to prove it. Hamas must accept the agreement.” Biden called on everyone to raise their voices and demand Hamas come to the negotiation table.
He acknowledged that some in Israel might disagree with the proposal but urged the country’s leadership to support the agreement ‘despite any pressures.’
‘I ask you to step back and think about what will happen if this moment is lost,’ he said to the Israeli people. He emphasized the need for a diplomatic solution and calm between Israel and Lebanon, and noted that the plan could facilitate normalizing relations with Saudi Arabia and addressing Iran’s threat. It’s an opportunity for Israel to become a strong regional player, “not living in the shadow of a terrorist attack.’ Biden stressed that Palestinian and Israeli leaders must collaborate on Gaza’s reconstruction to prevent Hamas from rearming. He also promised U.S. assistance in building schools and hospitals.
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