Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has disputed U.S. President Joe Biden’s description of Israel’s proposal for a ceasefire and hostage deal, stating that it was “partial” and not an accurate representation of the country’s stance on the matter. The disagreement arises from Biden’s presentation of a three-part plan that did not mention disarming Hamas, which would leave the group in control of Gaza.
The plan also requires Israeli withdrawal from Gaza before all hostages are released, prompting concerns among right-wing parties within Netanyahu’s governing coalition. These parties have threatened to leave and force new elections if the plan is adopted. In contrast, massive left-wing protests demand that Netanyahu accept the proposal.
Despite this, Israel has tentatively agreed to the outline in broad terms, including a potential pause in fighting to allow for the return of hostages. However, Netanyahu emphasized that there are other details not mentioned by President Biden. Israeli government spokesperson David Mencer clarified the country’s stance on ending the war: “The destruction of Hamas’s military and governing capabilities; the freeing of all 124 hostages; and ensuring that Gaza no longer poses a threat to Israel.” He added that Israel will not compromise on these objectives, nor would it agree to a permanent ceasefire until these conditions are met.
The White House has yet to explain why President Biden falsely described the plan as an Israeli proposal. White House national security spokesman John Kirby reiterated on ABC News’ This Week with George Stephanopoulos that “it is an Israeli proposal,” adding: “This was an Israeli proposal. We have every expectation that if Hamas agrees to the proposal, as was transmitted to them, an Israeli proposal, that Israel would say yes.
An Israeli official described President Biden’s speech as having a political nature, suggesting that he had his own reasons for giving it. Mencer also addressed escalating violence in the northern part of the country involving Iranian-backed terror group Hezbollah and its rocket and drone fire from Lebanon. He stated that the situation was “not sustainable,” implying that Israel could soon go to full-scale war against Hezbollah if it continues its attacks on the nation.
Regarding humanitarian aid efforts, Mencer noted that the United Nations has failed to distribute aid that Israel had allowed through. 650 aid trucks are currently waiting on the Gazan side of Kerem Shalom for pickup,” he said.