After months of supporting Israel, Joe Biden has shifted his stance and announced his support for a temporary pause in the Gaza war. The United States President has hinted at a possible resolution to the ongoing Hamas-Israel war by stating that he is actively working to broker a deal between the two opposing factions. Following a meeting with Jordanian King Abdullah II, Biden suggested a six-week cease-fire to facilitate the release of additional hostages held by Hamas.
“The key elements of the deal are on the table, ” Biden said alongside the king, though “there are gaps that remain.” He stated that the United States would do “everything possible” to reach an agreement, including a six-week pause in fighting and the release of the remaining hostages held by Hamas.
What is the proposed Gaza war peace deal?
The proposed agreement aims to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where Hamas still holds approximately 100 hostages out of the 240 captured during the October 7 attack. Approximately 100 of them were released during a previous ceasefire in November, and militants are believed to be holding the remains of more than 30 others, the majority of whom were killed in the October 7 attacks. Biden stated that he has spoken with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, as well as Qatari and Egyptian leaders, “to push this forward.”
Faced with criticism for his support of Israel, the president also highlighted the tragic loss of innocent lives in Gaza and Israel. He repeated his warning that Israel should not launch a full-scale attack on Rafah, Hamas‘ last major stronghold, which is home to more than 1.3 million people. “Too many of the over 27,000 Palestinians killed in this conflict have been innocent civilians, including thousands of children,” said Vice President Joe Biden. “Hundreds of thousands of people lack access to basic services such as food and water. Many families have lost multiple relatives and are unable to mourn or bury them due to safety concerns.”
The meeting between President Biden and King Abdullah II is part of ongoing diplomatic efforts
During the meeting, King Abdullah II emphasized the importance of a long-term ceasefire and declared that the war must end. He praised Biden’s leadership in resolving the conflict and urged immediate action to avoid another humanitarian catastrophe.
The US administration has been conducting diplomatic efforts, and a framework for the agreement is reportedly in place. The goal is to bring the conflict to a temporary halt, deliver humanitarian aid, and secure the release of hostages.
Biden’s stance represents a shift from his previous opposition to a permanent ceasefire and his insistence on preventing Hamas from retaining control of Gaza. The situation is complex, with ongoing discussions about the region’s future political and military control after the conflict is resolved.
The meeting between President Biden and King Abdullah II is part of ongoing diplomatic efforts, with the U.S. aiming to play a key role in resolving the Gaza war and planning for the post-conflict scenario.