“Biden’s New Ceasefire Proposal for Gaza Sparks Mixed Reactions”

Efforts for Ceasefire in Gaza Intensify Amidst Ongoing Conflict
Efforts to mediate an end to the devastating conflict in Gaza, led by the US, Egypt, and Qatar, continue as a new proposal for a ceasefire has been announced. This proposal, revealed on Friday, suggests a six-week ceasefire accompanied by an Israeli military withdrawal from populated Gaza areas and the release of some hostages. It aims to extend a temporary ceasefire agreed upon by Hamas earlier this year into a permanent cessation of hostilities.
The initiative is seen as a strategic move by President Biden to encourage Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to agree to the ceasefire. Biden’s announcement, framing the proposal as an offer from Israel, is intended to foster hope for peace and apply pressure on Netanyahu. However, an Israeli official emphasized that Israel’s commitment to dismantling Hamas remains unshaken, regardless of external pressures.
Despite the announcement, the success of the ceasefire proposal remains uncertain, with mediators awaiting a response from Hamas. Netanyahu’s stance appears ambiguous after initial signs of approval, and internal political pressures within Israel complicate the situation further. Far-right minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has threatened to disrupt the coalition government unless details of the Gaza deal are disclosed.
The ongoing conflict, which began on October 7 following a deadly attack by Hamas-led forces, has led to significant casualties and destruction. More than 36,000 people have been killed in Gaza, with the Israeli military campaign leaving the region in ruins. The humanitarian toll of the conflict has sparked international concern and debate within the US, particularly among Democrats over the Biden administration’s support for Israel’s military actions.
US officials hope that by making the Israeli proposal public, it will revive negotiations and encourage Hamas to accept the ceasefire. This approach reflects Biden’s broader strategy of leveraging public announcements to advance diplomatic objectives, aiming to hold Israel to its commitment and push for a resolution to the conflict that has deeply affected both Israelis and Palestinians.