Biden Announces Israel's Three-Phase Ceasefire and Hostage Plan via Qatar

May 31, 2024, 05:55 PM

President Joe Biden announced that Israel has proposed a comprehensive new ceasefire plan to Hamas, which has been transmitted through Qatar. The plan consists of three phases. The first phase involves a six-week complete ceasefire and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from populated areas of Gaza. During this period, Israel and Hamas will negotiate to reach the second phase, which aims for a permanent end to hostilities, a hostage-prisoner swap, and the release of all hostages. If negotiations extend beyond six weeks, the ceasefire will continue as long as talks are ongoing. The third phase focuses on the reconstruction of Gaza and providing humanitarian aid to Palestinians. Biden emphasized the historic opportunity this proposal presents and urged both sides to accept the deal to end the conflict.