In a breakthrough announcement, U.S. President Joe Biden confirmed that Israel and Hamas have agreed to a ceasefire deal aimed at halting the devastating 15-month war in Gaza. The deal, which will be implemented in multiple phases, is expected to bring relief to both the Israeli and Palestinian people affected by the conflict.
Phase One: Palestinians Can Return Home
According to President Biden, Palestinians will be allowed to return to their homes during the first phase of the ceasefire. Additionally, humanitarian assistance in the Gaza Strip will be significantly increased to aid those who have suffered from the ongoing conflict.
Phase Two: Ongoing Negotiations
The second phase will focus on negotiations between Israel and Hamas to settle the necessary arrangements. Biden mentioned that if these negotiations take longer than the expected six weeks, the ceasefire will remain in place until an agreement is reached.
Phase Three: Gaza Reconstruction and Hostage Return
In the final phase, a reconstruction plan for Gaza will be initiated, and the remaining hostages held by Hamas will be returned to their families. Biden expressed satisfaction with the outcome, stating that this was one of the toughest negotiations he had ever participated in.
Biden Reflects on the Road to the Deal
Biden emphasized the challenges that led to the agreement, noting that Hamas’s senior leaders have been killed, and thousands of its fighters are dead. The militant group is now operationally weakened, contributing to their agreement to the ceasefire deal. He also pointed out that Iran, which has supported Hezbollah in Lebanon, is weaker than it has been in decades.
A Long-Awaited Relief for Both Sides
Biden expressed his deep satisfaction with the deal, highlighting that it will bring relief to the people of Israel, especially those with loved ones still held captive, and to the people of Gaza who have endured “unimaginable devastation.” He noted that too many innocent lives had been lost, and with this deal, the Palestinians can begin rebuilding their lives without the influence of Hamas.
