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Biden Announces Israel's Three-Phase Ceasefire and Hostage Proposal for Gaza

May 31, 2024, 05:37 PM

President Joe Biden announced that Israel has put forward a comprehensive new proposal for a ceasefire and the release of hostages in Gaza. The proposal, which has been transmitted to Hamas through Qatar, outlines a three-phase plan. The first phase involves a six-week ceasefire and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from populated areas of Gaza. During this period, negotiations will take place to reach a permanent end to hostilities and the release of all hostages. If negotiations extend beyond six weeks, the ceasefire will continue as long as talks are ongoing. The second phase aims for a permanent end to hostilities and the release of all hostages, while the third phase focuses on the reconstruction of Gaza. Biden emphasized that this is a historic opportunity and urged both sides not to lose this moment. The proposal is backed by the U.S., Egypt, and Qatar. Biden also stated that Hamas is no longer capable of carrying out another October 7th attack.