Biden Optimistic Over Gaza Ceasefire By Monday, Potential Proposal Details Emerge.
By Caroline Ameh
President Joe Biden expressed optimism regarding the possibility of a new ceasefire in Gaza by next Monday, with reports indicating Hamas’s consideration of a 40-day halt in fighting and a proposed exchange of Israeli hostages for Palestinian prisoners, according to a source cited by Reuters.
Speaking to reporters during a visit to New York, Biden indicated progress in the negotiations, stating, “My national security adviser tells me that we’re close. We’re close. We’re not done yet.” He also mentioned Israel’s willingness to temporarily pause its military operations during Ramadan if an agreement is reached to release some hostages.
Details of a draft proposal from truce talks in Paris emerged, revealing plans for a 40-day cessation of military activities and the exchange of prisoners at a ratio of 10 to one. Additionally, the proposal outlined measures to repair hospitals and bakeries in Gaza, facilitate aid deliveries, and provide housing for displaced civilians.
Israel’s war cabinet has reportedly approved the broad terms of a potential deal, with mediation efforts involving Egypt, Qatar, the United States, France, and others. The proposed ceasefire could pave the way for aid delivery to Gaza, where humanitarian conditions have deteriorated sharply.
Despite hopes for a ceasefire, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized the need for “total victory” against Hamas, stating that any truce deal would only delay a ground invasion of Rafah.
The situation has become politically charged for President Biden, who faces pressure from activists urging a change in approach to the conflict. Ahead of primary elections in Michigan, some have called for voters to mark their ballots “uncommitted” in a bid to influence Biden’s stance on the issue.
The ongoing negotiations underscore the complexities and challenges in resolving the conflict between Israel and Hamas, with hopes pinned on achieving a temporary cessation of hostilities to address urgent humanitarian needs in Gaza.