What is Hamas's three-stage ceasefire plan? Why is Biden deeming it as excessive?

Although specific details of the previous proposal remain undisclosed, Reuters has obtained access to the Hamas document outlining the ceasefire plan.

Israel-Hamas Conflict: In the midst of escalating casualties and destruction, Hamas has put forward a comprehensive three-stage ceasefire initiative aimed at mitigating the conflict with Israel. This proposal, consisting of three 45-day truce periods, is a response to a previous suggestion endorsed by Israel and the US, facilitated by Qatari and Egyptian mediators.

 Israel-Hamas Conflict: Hamas's ceasefire proposal revealed

Although specific details of the previous proposal remain undisclosed, Reuters has obtained access to the Hamas document outlining the ceasefire plan. However, it remains uncertain whether Israel will seek modifications to the plan or outright rejection.

Israel-Hamas Conflict: Understanding the three phases

• Phase 1: In the initial stage, Israeli female hostages, boys under 19, and vulnerable individuals will be released in exchange for Palestinian women and children incarcerated in Israeli prisons. Concurrently, Israel will withdraw its military presence from populated areas, initiating the reconstruction process in Gaza, particularly focusing on hospital facilities.

• Phase 2: The subsequent phase involves the release of additional male hostages and the complete withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza.

• Phase 3: The final phase centres on the exchange of deceased individuals and their mortal remains from both sides. Hamas envisions using this 135-day period to negotiate a comprehensive agreement to terminate hostilities.

Israel-Hamas Conflict: Israel's response and challenges ahead

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is expected to address the ceasefire proposal, highlighting concerns that the plan effectively solidifies Hamas's authority in Gaza, a stance vehemently opposed by Israel. Netanyahu has underscored the complete defeat of Hamas as the primary objective.

While some demands presented by Hamas may prove unattainable, Israeli authorities are deliberating whether to outright reject the proposal or seek alternative conditions.

Israel-Hamas Conflict: International response and broader implications

US President Joe Biden has expressed reservations about Hamas's demands, deeming them excessive. However, negotiations are set to continue despite these challenges.

Netanyahu faces mounting pressure from right-wing factions within his government, adamantly opposed to concessions to Hamas, alongside families of hostages advocating for their release.

Israel-Hamas Conflict: Human toll and diplomatic ramifications

The conflict has resulted in devastating human casualties, with Hamas reporting over 27,700 Palestinian fatalities and at least 65,000 injuries. Despite Netanyahu's aspirations for a "total victory," achieving such an outcome remains uncertain.

Moreover, the conflict has disrupted potential diplomatic breakthroughs, notably the Israel-Saudi agreement, derailed by the violence in October 2023. Saudi Arabia's insistence on Palestinian statehood before any normalization of ties underscores the intricate diplomatic landscape influenced by the ongoing conflict.

As tensions persist and negotiations continue, the fate of Gaza hangs in the balance, with stakeholders cautiously navigating a path towards sustainable peace and stability.

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