U.S. President Joe Biden declared that Hamas is no longer capable of carrying out a major terror attack on Israel and called for a permanent cease-fire in Gaza. Speaking from the White House, Biden emphasized, “At this point, Hamas is no longer capable of carrying out another October 7. It’s time for this war to end, for the day after to begin.”
Three-Phase Proposal for Peace
From the State Dining Room, Biden endorsed an Israeli proposal transmitted to Hamas by Qatari negotiators. The U.S. President outlined that the proposal would be divided into three distinct phases:
- Six-Week Cease-Fire: An immediate halt to hostilities to create a conducive environment for negotiations.
- Withdrawal of Israeli Forces: Israeli troops would pull back from populated areas of Gaza.
- Hostage Exchange: The exchange of elderly and women hostages held by Hamas for the release of hundreds of Palestinian detainees.
Biden assured that these measures would allow Palestinians to return to their homes, fostering a sense of normalcy and stability in the region.
A Decisive Moment
President Biden also issued a stern warning to Israel about the risks of growing global isolation if the conflict continues. “This is truly a decisive moment,” he stated. “Hamas says it wants a cease-fire. This deal is an opportunity to prove whether they really mean it.”
With information from the New York Times and Reuters, Biden’s call for peace underscores the urgent need for both sides to embrace this opportunity for a lasting resolution.