The mediators of the war in Gaza on Saturday called on Israel and Hamas to finalize the deal outlined by U.S. President Joe Biden.
In a joint statement, Qatar, the United States and Egypt said that “as mediators in the ongoing discussions to secure a cease-fire in Gaza and the release of hostages and detainees,” they “call on both Hamas and Israel to finalize the agreement embodying the principles outlined” by Biden on Friday.
Biden said the peace deal would involve an initial six-week cease-fire with a partial Israeli military withdrawal, and the release of some hostages, while “a permanent end to hostilities” is negotiated through mediators.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reiterated his position Saturday, saying that Israel’s conditions for ending the war had not changed: “the destruction of Hamas’ military and governing capabilities, the freeing of all hostages and ensuring that Gaza no longer poses a threat to Israel.”
Two right-wing members of his Cabinet, National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich threatened Saturday to bring down Netanyahu’s government if he were to agree to Biden’s proposal.
Opposition leader Yair Lapid urged Netanyahu to take the deal and offered to support the prime minister if Ben Gvir and Smotrich bolted.
Additionally, the Biden Gaza peace plan prioritizes humanitarian aid and infrastructure development in Gaza. Chronic poverty and infrastructural decay have plagued Gaza for years.
Furthermore, the Biden Gaza peace plan calls for a phased approach to conflict resolution. Initially, the plan emphasizes ceasefire agreements and the gradual easing of blockades.
Ultimately, the phased approach of the Biden Gaza peace plan offers a pragmatic roadmap to achieving lasting peace in the region.
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