The Biden administration is intensifying its diplomatic efforts to broker a cease-fire in the ongoing conflict in Gaza, involving Israeli forces and Hamas militants. President Joe Biden outlined a proposed deal in a televised address, calling for a six-week cease-fire with Israeli withdrawal from populated areas of Gaza in exchange for the release of Palestinian prisoners held by Israel. Despite the public push by the U.S., neither Israel nor Hamas had accepted the proposal as of Friday, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu insisting on the total destruction of Hamas before agreeing to a cease-fire.
The U.S. continues to exert pressure on both parties, with Secretary of State Antony Blinken scheduled for a visit to the Middle East to promote the cease-fire proposal. CIA director Bill Burns and Middle East adviser Brett McGurk have also traveled to the region to gain support for the deal. The international community, including the Group of Seven and countries with hostages in Gaza, has endorsed the proposal. U.S. officials are engaging with Arab governments to rally support for the cease-fire, despite some reluctance and objections.
In Israel, where the political situation is complex, there is little indication that the U.S. efforts have had a significant impact. Netanyahu’s coalition partners are opposed to the proposed deal, threatening to bring down the government if Netanyahu accepts it. Opposition leader Yair Lapid has offered support for a hostage deal, but the political landscape remains fraught. Netanyahu’s control over the Israeli parliament may be weakened if Defence Minister Benny Gantz resigns, as he has threatened to do. However, popular protests or pressure from the U.S. could potentially sway Netanyahu towards a compromise.
Hamas, on the other side of the conflict, is expected to provide a formal response to the proposed cease-fire deal in the coming days. Senior Hamas official Osama Hamdan has expressed the group’s willingness to consider the proposal but stressed the importance of Israel guaranteeing a permanent cease-fire, complete withdrawal of troops from Gaza, and a prisoner exchange. Hamas leaders, including Yahya Sinwar, who hold significant power in Gaza, are believed to have surrounded themselves with foreign hostages in underground tunnels, potentially complicating negotiations.
The U.S. continues to push for a diplomatic resolution to the conflict in Gaza, with a focus on achieving a cease-fire that would alleviate the humanitarian crisis and reduce casualties. Despite the challenges and complex political dynamics on both sides, the Biden administration remains committed to its diplomatic efforts. The international community’s support for the proposed deal, along with continued engagement with key stakeholders in the region, will be crucial in moving towards a resolution to the conflict.
