United States President Joe Biden laid out Israel's three-phase proposal on Friday that would bring the war in the Gaza Strip to an end. The first phase would ensure a six-week-long ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from all populated areas in Gaza during the period.
Furthermore, the proposal would include provisions for the exchange of Palestinian detainees for the release of hostages held by Hamas. The president emphasized that throughout the six-week period, the two warring parties would engage in negotiations aimed at progressing to phase 2, which aims to permanently halt hostilities. If the negotiations extend beyond six weeks, the ceasefire will persist for the duration of the talks, Biden clarified. The final phase will offer a "major reconstruction plan for Gaza," the US president pointed out.
"I urge Israeli leadership to back this deal despite any pressure," Biden stressed. "Everyone who wants peace now must raise their voices and work to make it real. It's time for this war to end," he added.
