Middle East Crisis Biden Outlines Cease-fire Proposal to End War in Gaza
President Joe Biden on Thursday outlined a cease-fire proposal to end the war in Gaza, saying he spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas about the plan.
“I believe the path we are on now is unsustainable,” Biden said during a press conference at the White House. “And I believe there is a genuine opportunity, right now, at this moment, to ensure that the violence ends, and to make sure aid gets to those who need it the most.”
Biden said the cease-fire proposal includes a “mutual and unconditional” truce, an immediate extension of the current cease-fire for an additional 24 hours, and a commitment to de-escalation and diplomacy.
The president also said the U.S. would work with the United Nations, the European Union, and other countries to provide humanitarian assistance to the people of Gaza.
“We will also work to ensure that the people of Israel have the security and the support they need to live in peace and safety,” Biden said.
The president’s comments came as Israel and Hamas continued to exchange fire in Gaza, with both sides reporting casualties. The conflict has killed at least 212 Palestinians, including 61 children, and 12 Israelis, including two children.
Biden said he spoke with Netanyahu on Thursday and expressed his condolences for the Israeli casualties. He also spoke with Abbas on Wednesday and expressed his condolences for the Palestinian casualties.
The president said he will continue to work with international partners to find a solution to the conflict.
“I believe that we have an opportunity to make progress, but it will require compromise and a genuine commitment to peace,” Biden said. “I urge all parties to seize this opportunity and to take concrete steps to de-escalate the situation and to work towards a lasting peace.”
The conflict in Gaza began on May 10, when Hamas launched rockets into Israel in response to Israeli police clashes with Palestinian protesters in Jerusalem. The violence has since escalated, with both sides accusing the other of violating a cease-fire that was reached earlier this week.