The USA is actively pressuring Israel to finalize a settlement to the Gaza conflict, following a proposal allegedly sent by Israel through intermediaries to Hamas. National Security Council Communications Director, John Kirby, told ABC News that the US expects Israel to agree if Hamas accepts the proposal. The diplomatic push is led by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who indirectly held Israel accountable while praising its willingness to negotiate, despite stipulations from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu about the destruction of Hamas and the release of all hostages.
The US proposal, announced by President Biden, detailed a draft Gaza deal to which Israel had ostensibly agreed. However, Netanyahu’s coalition partners have threatened to dissolve the government if the agreement proceeds, reflecting the internal political friction in Israel. Despite these threats, Israel's war cabinet convened to discuss the offer and the potential impacts of agreeing to a ceasefire.
Netanyahu's administration underscores that any agreement with Hamas must include mechanisms to ensure that resumed fighting is a possibility if obligations under the deal are not met. John Kirby noted that initial phases of the deal involve releasing some hostages and ensuring an influx of humanitarian aid, potentially up to 600 trucks. Subsequent phases require a long-term cessation of hostilities and the comprehensive release of all hostages.
Meanwhile, some actions have taken place outside the direct Gaza conflict. Syrian state media reported fatalities and damage in a suspected Israeli airstrike targeting pro-Iranian militia positions in northwestern Syria. Although the Israeli government has not officially commented, these frequent strikes aim to counteract Iran's influence in Syria.
Amidst these developments, the USA, Egypt, and Israel are negotiating the reopening of the Rafah border crossing to allow humanitarian aid into Gaza. Egyptian representatives, however, insist that the border will not reopen until the Israeli military withdraws completely. Simultaneously, Israeli Defense Minister Galant identified intentions to replace Hamas with alternative governance structures, emphasizing the need for international actors to support Palestinian representatives in assuming control of Gaza.
President Biden's proposed deal puts Netanyahu under considerable domestic pressure. Far-right coalition members, including Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, threaten to collapse the government if the deal is accepted. These internal pressures come on the heels of significant public demonstrations, led by families of hostages, demanding immediate government action. Despite these pressures, Netanyahu remains firm that a permanent ceasefire is contingent on the complete dismantling of Hamas's military capabilities, the release of all hostages, and the eradication of threats emanating from Gaza.
Hamas responded to Biden's proposal with cautious optimism, urging Israel to firmly commit to terms including a full withdrawal from Gaza and a comprehensive prisoner exchange. However, Biden acknowledged the complexity of keeping the proposal on track, suggesting that unresolved 'details' might present challenges as the phases progress. US officials are optimistic that reaching an initial agreement could facilitate further negotiations towards lasting peace.
- The situation remains highly volatile and complex with varying interests from different stakeholders. Hamas's acceptance of the proposal is crucial for the deal aimed at bringing relief to Gaza residents and ensuring the release of Israeli hostages.
- The internal political dynamics within Israel and the pressure from Netanyahu's coalition partners play a significant role in the potential success or failure of the proposed agreement. Additionally, the international community's involvement, especially from Egypt and Qatar, indicates broad regional interest in resolving the conflict.
- Israel's continued military actions in Syria against pro-Iranian militias further complicate the regional security situation, reflecting Israel's broader strategy to limit Iranian influence. The ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza underscores the urgent need for reopening the Rafah border to facilitate aid delivery.
- The proposed deal's phased approach highlights the careful balancing act required to maintain security while addressing humanitarian needs and political pressures. The potential for resumed fighting if Hamas deviates from the agreement showcases the fragile nature of the proposed ceasefire.
