Netanyahu Rejects Biden's Ceasefire Proposal for Gaza
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has dismissed U.S. President Joe Biden's proposed road map for a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, citing that it does not meet Israel’s conditions. Speaking to the Knesset Foreign Affairs and Security Committee, Netanyahu refuted claims that Israel agreed to a ceasefire without fulfilling its objectives, emphasizing that Israel’s goals include the dismantling of Hamas as both a military and political entity.
Government spokesman David Mincer echoed Netanyahu's sentiments, calling Biden's plan 'incomplete.' According to reports, the initial phase of the proposal includes a six-week ceasefire, an Israeli military withdrawal from populated areas in Gaza, the release of hostages, and the exchange of Palestinian prisoners held by Israel. However, Netanyahu insists on continuing the war until all Israeli objectives, including the elimination of Hamas, are achieved.
Political Division Intensifies Over Gaza Ceasefire
The U.S.-proposed plan has caused a significant rift within Israeli politics. Far-right ministers Itamar Ben Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich have publicly threatened to dismantle Netanyahu’s government if he accepts the deal without ensuring the destruction of Hamas. Ben Gvir accused Netanyahu of hiding the draft of the deal, while Smotrich labeled Biden’s proposal as 'dangerous,' urging Netanyahu to reject any potential defeat. On the other hand, opposition leader Yair Lapid has stated his willingness to support Netanyahu if coalition partners quit over the proposal.
Despite Netanyahu’s firm stance, U.S National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan stated that there has been a willingness from Israel to move forward with an agreement. Meanwhile, Hamas has shown a positive initial reaction to the proposal, stipulating that any agreement must include a permanent ceasefire and a complete Israeli withdrawal from Gaza.
Concurrent indirect negotiations mediated by Egypt, Qatar, and the U.S. have been underway for months but have seen little success. These negotiations aim to resolve the ongoing conflict that has resulted in significant casualties and destruction in Gaza, with over 118,000 casualties, including many women and children, since the conflict escalated on October 7, 2023.
- Hopes were high over the weekend as details of Biden's proposal emerged. While Israeli media quoted Netanyahu expressing doubts about Biden’s plan, U.S. officials continue to press for a resolution. The proposed six-week ceasefire aims to provide immediate relief and initiate a longer-term framework for peace, contingent upon Hamas meeting its commitments.
- Biden emphasized that a permanent ceasefire and the subsequent phases of the deal depend on successful initial negotiations. According to the proposal, if Hamas does not abide by the ceasefire terms, Israel retains the right to resume military action. The first phase notably includes a 'total and complete ceasefire,' the release of hostages, and the beginning of negotiations for a more permanent solution.
- Netanyahu has also agreed to address U.S. congressional leaders on Capitol Hill, in what may be an attempt to strengthen ties with Israel's key ally amidst internal political pressure and external diplomatic challenges. Meanwhile, several international mediators and humanitarian agencies urge both sides to prioritize human lives and seize this opportunity for peace.
