Washington, DC – The US government is urging Israel to accept a ceasefire proposal amidst ongoing strikes on Gaza. President Joe Biden’s three-part plan includes a temporary halt to hostilities, humanitarian aid, and a prisoner exchange. However, some Israeli officials have voiced opposition to the proposal.
The conflict continues in Rafah, with Israeli airstrikes forcing residents to flee. The UN agency for Palestinian refugees reports that all 36 of its shelters in Rafah are empty. Additionally, 1.7 million people are displaced in other parts of Gaza.
US National Security Council spokesman, John Kirby, expressed confidence in Israel’s acceptance of the ceasefire if Hamas agrees. The plan entails negotiating phases and a permanent end to the war. However, far-right Israeli ministers have threatened to resign if Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accepts the deal before Hamas is dismantled.
Israeli officials emphasize the need to destroy Hamas’s military capabilities and return all hostages before agreeing to a ceasefire. Despite US assessments of Hamas’s weakened state, Israel remains firm in its stance. Meanwhile, the Maldives government announced a ban on Israeli citizens from their country, prompting a warning from Israel’s foreign ministry.
Casualties in Gaza have surpassed 36,000 since the conflict began, instigated by Hamas attacks on Israel last October. President Biden faces criticism domestically over US support for Israel. Calls for more active involvement in negotiation efforts have emerged.