President Joe Biden announced that a potential ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in Gaza may be implemented as early as the beginning of next week
While in New York City, Mr. Biden was questioned about the likelihood of a ceasefire and was specifically asked about the timing of its implementation.
The president responded, “I am hopeful that it will be done by the end of the weekend.”
There are reports that Hamas, which Israel is determined to eliminate from Gaza, is reviewing a draft proposal that involves permitting a substantial amount of humanitarian aid, along with exchanging Palestinian prisoners for the remaining hostages taken during the incident that led to Israel’s bombing of the area.
Continuing, Mr Biden informed the press traveling with him that his national security adviser, Jake Sullivan, has indicated that a ceasefire is “close” but negotiations are “not finalized”.
This proposal represents a significant effort to end the conflict, especially with the approaching Muslim fasting month of Ramadan and increasing international pressure on Israel to prevent harm to Palestinian civilians.
This year, Ramadan is anticipated to start on the evening of 10 March.
In an appearance on NBC’s Late Night with Seth Meyers, Mr. Biden stated, “Ramadan is coming up, and there’s been an agreement by the Israelis that they would not engage in activities during Ramadan, as well, in order to give us time to get all the hostages out.”
The US has been engaged in discussions, with the involvement of mediators from Qatar and Egypt.
Gaza Tensions: Hamas Challenges Biden’s Ceasefire Call, Concerns Persist
Nevertheless, a Hamas official informed Reuters that Mr. Biden’s statements regarding a cessation of hostilities in Gaza are premature and do not align with the current situation on the ground.
The official mentioned that there are significant gaps that still need to be addressed.
Israel is gearing up for an attack on Gaza’s southernmost city, Rafah, where over a million Palestinians are seeking refuge after being forced to the southern part of the territory due to Israel’s military operation moving south.
The US, Israel’s strongest supporter, along with the UK and the UN, have all issued warnings against a military attack on Rafah.
Aid organizations have emphasized the potential catastrophic consequences of such an action, as the residents of Rafah would have no safe haven.