ALBAWABA - Many saw US President Joe Biden's unveiling of Israel's revised ceasefire proposal as a geopolitical maneuver against Netanyahu. Palestinian Parliamentarian Mustafa Barghouti said, "This is the US's way of encircling Netanyahu and preventing him from maneuvering again."
Biden said Israel suggested a three-phase ceasefire. The six-week first phase includes a full ceasefire, Israeli disengagement from key Gaza population centers, and captive release. Biden's direct participation in publicizing the initiative sends a message to Netanyahu.
After six weeks, Israel and Hamas will discuss the second phase to halt hostilities permanently. The second phase releases all living captives, including male troops, and completes the Israeli pullout from Gaza, turning the truce into a sustainable peace.
The interim truce will continue if discussions go longer than six weeks. After a durable peace, the third phase will concentrate on Gaza rebuilding and captive repatriation.
Biden encouraged Israeli officials to embrace the pact, underscoring his lifetime commitment to Israel. "As the only President with a lifetime dedication to Israel and who traveled to Israel during warfare, please consider what happens if this chance is squandered. We must seize this opportunity "Biden urged.
The Hamas response was positive: "We support President Biden's new ceasefire proposal. We welcome any lasting ceasefire proposal."
Mustafa Barghouti told Al Jazeera that Biden's solo statement was deliberate. "This revelation demonstrates that Israel and the US recognize Gaza's war's failure. Israel failed to ethnically cleanse Gazans. It failed to end Palestinian resistance. Israeli captives could not be returned without a trade. These elements will affect Netanyahu's future "Barghouti said.
He continued, "Israel's agreement was needed for Biden's declaration. The US encircles Netanyahu to prevent him from moving again."
