Biden lays out new Israel ceasefire proposal, says it's 'time for this war to end'

United States President Joe Biden, while speaking at a press conference, said that Israel's ceasefire proposal will have three phases.

He added that the first phase will last for six weeks and will include a "full and complete ceasefire"; withdrawal of Israeli forces "from all populated areas of Gaza"; release of a number of hostages, including women, the elderly, the wounded in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners' release.

Biden added that Palestinian civilians would be able to return anywhere in Gaza and humanitarian assistance will be increased.

He said that the ceasefire plan will allow a "surge" in humanitarian aid and there will be "600 trucks carrying aid into Gaza every single day."

"With a ceasefire, that aid could be safely and effectively distributed to all who need it. All that and more would begin immediately," said Biden.

The phase three of the ceasefire plan will include the return of remains of hostages who were abducted from Israel on October 7 and are now dead.

"Any final remains of hostages who have been killed would be returned to their families," said Biden. He, however, accepted that some people in Israel would not agree with the proposal.

"I urge the leadership in Israel to stand behind this deal, despite whatever pressure comes," he added.

While addressing the citizens of Israel, Biden said that he has made a life-long commitment to the country.

"I ask you to take a step back and think what will happen if this moment is lost," said Biden. He added that "we can't lose this moment" and further argued against "indefinite war".

The US president emphasised the need for a diplomatic solution in the war-torn region. He saidthat Palestinian and Israeli leaders will have to come together and rebuild Gaza in a way that Hamas is not rearmed.

Biden said that the US government will provide all possible help to build schools and hospitals in Gaza. He said that the proposal is also giving Israel a chance to emerge as a strong regional player.

"All this progress would make Israel more secure," said Biden, adding they will no longer be "living in the shadow of a terrorist attack".

"All this would create the conditions for a different future, and a better future, for the Palestinian people," a future of "dignity" and "freedom", he said, adding, "This path is available, once the deal is struck."

Biden calls it a 'truly decisive moment', appeals to 'end war'

The US president said that it is"truly a decisive moment". "Israel has made their proposal, and Hamas says it wants a ceasefire - this deal is an opportunity prove whether they really mean it. Hamas needs to take the deal," he said.

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Biden said that people have for monthscalled for a ceasefire and now it is the time to yield to their voices and bring Hamas to an agreement over the deal.

While finishing his address, Biden said, "It's time to begin this new stage" and ring the hostages back so that Israel is secured and suffering ends. "It's time for this war to end, and for the day after to begin," he added.

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

(With inputs from agencies)