Biden urges Hamas to accept the ceasefire proposal and to facilitate the return of hostages

US President Joe Biden has issued a call for Hamas to consider accepting a ceasefire proposal presented by Israel, signaling a potential avenue for ending the prolonged conflict in Gaza.

Biden delivered this message during a speech from The White House, underscoring the urgency of achieving peace and urging Hamas leaders to weigh the latest offer carefully.

Joe Biden has announced that Israel has given Hamas another chance to accept a ceasefire dealCredit: EPA

Israel will withdraw from Gaza as part of their proposal including the besieged city of Rafah which is surrounded by tanksCredit: Reuters

Part of the three-phase deal will see Gaza be reconstructed after months of bombing has left the region in tattersCredit: Getty

All of the hostages will finally be freed from their nightmare if the ceasefire is agreed to and upheldCredit: Rex

The ceasefire proposal, outlined by Israel, is structured into three distinct phases, aiming to bring an end to the nearly eight-month-long war in Gaza.

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  Hamas are thought to still have over 100 hostages kept captive including women, children and the woundedCredit: AFP

President Biden outlined the initial phase, which spans a six-week timeframe and involves the withdrawal of Israeli forces from populated areas within Gaza, including the besieged city of Rafah.

In exchange for the withdrawal, Israel seeks the release of all remaining hostages, including women, children, and individuals who have been injured during the conflict.

Additionally, the proposal entails the return of the remains of those who lost their lives in the ongoing violence and the release of Palestinian prisoners currently held in Israeli custody.

While Hamas has signaled a tentative openness to the proposal, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office has indicated potential reservations, stating that the government remains focused on achieving its objectives in the conflict.

Biden emphasized the significance of the ceasefire proposal as an opportunity for both parties to demonstrate their commitment to achieving lasting peace in the region. He urged Hamas to seize this moment and actively engage in efforts to de-escalate the violence in Gaza.

The proposed ceasefire comes amid ongoing tensions between Israel and Hamas, marked by repeated airstrikes and military operations in the region.

Despite international calls for a cessation of hostilities, Hamas has expressed reluctance to engage in negotiations while Israeli attacks persist.

Former US President Barack Obama has voiced his support for the proposal, describing it as a clear and realistic path forward. However, the success of the ceasefire plan hinges on Hamas’ willingness to accept and adhere to the terms set forth by Israel.

As the conflict in Gaza continues to unfold, the international community remains vigilant, closely monitoring developments in hopes of achieving a peaceful resolution to the crisis.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is believed to not fully ‘agree with’ the proposalCredit: AP

Calls to finally stop the war have ramped up in recent weeks as the number of civilian deaths continues to rise in GazaCredit: Getty

Most of the Gaza Strip has been left in ruins since the October 7 massacreCredit: Rex

The proposal represents a potential breakthrough in diplomatic efforts to address the longstanding tensions between Israel and Hamas.

Biden’s call for Hamas to consider the ceasefire proposal underscores the critical importance of dialogue and negotiation in resolving complex conflicts. The path to peace requires mutual respect, compromise, and a genuine commitment to finding common ground.

The proposal’s phased approach reflects a strategic effort to address key issues and lay the groundwork for sustainable peace in the region. By delineating clear steps and timelines, the proposal offers a framework for constructive engagement and progress.

However, challenges remain as both sides navigate deeply entrenched grievances and competing interests. Achieving a lasting ceasefire will require sustained diplomatic efforts and continued international support.

As the situation evolves, stakeholders must remain flexible and open to exploring creative solutions that address the underlying causes of the conflict. Only through dialogue and cooperation can the cycle of violence be broken, paving the way for a more stable and prosperous future for all parties involved.

In the face of immense human suffering and loss, the imperative for peace grows ever more urgent. The ceasefire proposal represents a beacon of hope in a region fraught with turmoil, offering a glimmer of possibility for a brighter tomorrow.