Hamas has agreed to a cease-fire deal to end the war in Gaza, proposing a three-phase plan that includes releasing Israeli hostages, withdrawing Israeli troops, and providing humanitarian aid. Israel, however, claims its core demands were not met in the proposal mediated by Egypt and Qatar.
The first phase of the agreement involves a 42-day pause in fighting, with the release of hostages and withdrawal of Israeli forces. Subsequent phases would focus on negotiating terms for further releases and reconstruction efforts.
While Hamas has accepted the proposal, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has criticized it as falling short of Israel’s demands and has warned against allowing Hamas to rebuild its military capabilities. The threat of a ground operation in Rafah and uncertainty surrounding reconstruction plans add complexity to the situation.
Amidst ongoing tensions, the Biden administration has emphasized the need for a political roadmap towards Palestinian statehood, involving the return of the internationally recognized Palestinian Authority to Gaza. However, Netanyahu’s government rejects this idea and opposes the establishment of a Palestinian state.