Biden Pressures Hamas to Accept Israeli Ceasefire Plan: ‘Time for This War to End

President Joe Biden has called on Hamas to agree to a new peace proposal from Israel that offers a permanent ceasefire and Israeli withdrawal from Gaza in exchange for the release of hostages and the long-term reconstruction of Gaza.

In his remarks, Biden stated, “It’s time for this war to end … for the day after to begin,” outlining a three-phase agreement presented by the Israeli government. A senior administration official confirmed that the 4.5-page proposal had been endorsed by Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and was presented to Hamas on Friday.

Hamas responded positively to the proposal, though Netanyahu’s full support remained unclear. The Israeli Prime Minister’s office issued a statement affirming that Netanyahu had authorized a negotiating team to present the plan, but insisted that Israel would continue fighting until all objectives, including the dismantling of Hamas’s military and governance, were achieved.

The first phase of the plan includes a six-week ceasefire and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza’s populated areas. During this time, Hamas would release several hostages in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, and humanitarian aid would be increased.

If an agreement is not reached within six weeks, the ceasefire would continue as long as negotiations, brokered by the US, Qatar, and Egypt, are ongoing. The second phase would see the release of all remaining hostages and a commitment to a lasting truce.

Biden emphasized the significance of the moment, saying, “Israel has made their proposal. Hamas says they want a ceasefire. This deal is an opportunity to prove whether they really mean it. Hamas needs to take the deal.” He also addressed potential resistance within Israel, urging its leadership to support the plan despite opposition from the right.

The proposal, described as a forward-leaning offer, is seen as feasible due to recent Israeli military successes against Hamas. Netanyahu’s office maintained that Israel would continue its military efforts until all its goals are met, including the elimination of Hamas’s capabilities.

While Biden seeks to influence Netanyahu, the Israeli leader has significant sway in US politics, demonstrated by an invitation from congressional leaders to address a joint session of Congress. Meanwhile, relatives of hostages have criticized Netanyahu’s government, accusing it of prioritizing political interests over the lives of the hostages.

Biden concluded by urging Israel to embrace the peace deal to avoid prolonged conflict, which he warned would drain resources and further isolate Israel internationally. He also highlighted the potential for a normalization agreement with Saudi Arabia as a benefit of the deal.