Biden announces three-phase ceasefire plan for Gaza Strip
President Joe Biden confirmed that an agreement has been reached regarding a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip. "The plan consists of three phases," said the outgoing U.S. president on Wednesday.
The president described the journey to securing the agreement as exceptionally challenging, despite his extensive experience in foreign policy. He outlined that the initial six-week phase would involve a full ceasefire, the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza's populated areas, and the release of numerous hostages held by Hamas, including women, elderly individuals, and the injured. Biden highlighted that Americans would actively contribute to the hostages' release. Furthermore, he mentioned that Palestinians would be allowed to return to Gaza, and humanitarian aid deliveries were anticipated to commence.
Phase two and three
The second phase will begin following the initial six weeks, during which Israel will work on negotiating the required arrangements to establish a permanent end to the conflict. The president emphasized that while the transition involves numerous complex details, the plan ensures the ceasefire will remain in place if negotiations extend beyond the six-week timeframe.
Once the second phase begins, the remaining living hostages, including male soldiers, will be released in exchange, and all remaining Israeli forces will withdraw from the Gaza Strip. The temporary ceasefire will transition into a permanent one. In the third phase, the remains of any hostages who lost their lives will be returned to their families, followed by the launch of a comprehensive reconstruction plan for the Gaza Strip.
