On Sunday, an aide to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed Israel’s acceptance of a framework deal proposed by US President Joe Biden to wind down the Gaza conflict. However, the aide, Ophir Falk, described the deal as flawed and needing significant refinement.
In an interview, Falk stated, “It’s a deal we agreed to — it’s not a good deal but we dearly want the hostages released, all of them.” He emphasized that Israeli conditions, such as the release of hostages and the dismantling of Hamas as a terrorist organization, remain unchanged.
Biden, who initially backed Israel’s offensive but later criticized its civilian casualties, presented a three-phase plan on Friday. The first phase involves a truce and the release of some hostages by Hamas. Subsequently, negotiations for a broader ceasefire would occur in the second phase, with the remaining captives being freed.
However, this sequencing suggests the ongoing involvement of Hamas in interim arrangements, which contradicts Israel’s aim to eradicate the group.
Despite Biden’s previous ceasefire proposals, none have materialized due to Israel’s insistence on discussing only temporary halts until Hamas is neutralized. Hamas, however, demands a permanent resolution to the conflict.
While Biden’s latest proposal aims for a Gaza without Hamas, specifics on achieving this remain unclear. Netanyahu maintains that a permanent ceasefire will only occur once all Israeli objectives are met.
Netanyahu faces pressure from his coalition government, with far-right partners threatening to withdraw over any perceived leniency toward Hamas. Meanwhile, centrist partner Benny Gantz supports considering the deal.
Hamas cautiously welcomed Biden’s initiative but seeks comprehensive agreements meeting its demands, including an end to the Gaza offensive and reconstruction aid.
Israeli officials reject Hamas’ terms, fearing a return to the situation before Hamas’ rule in Gaza and the escalation of violence. The conflict has claimed thousands of lives, with significant casualties on both sides.
