Israel has accepted a framework deal proposed by US President Joe Biden to end the Gaza war, according to an aide to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. However, Netanyahu’s aide described the deal as flawed and needing further refinement.
Ophir Falk, the chief foreign policy advisor to Netanyahu, mentioned in an interview with The Sunday Times that while Israel agreed to the deal, it is not considered favourable. He emphasized the importance of releasing all hostages and dismantling Hamas as a terrorist organization. Falk highlighted that many details, including the release of hostages and the dismantling of Hamas, still need to be addressed.
Biden’s proposal, announced on May 31, outlines a three-stage plan. The initial six-week phase involves a ceasefire and partial Israeli military withdrawal, along with the release of some hostages. Subsequent phases include the release of all remaining hostages and a complete Israeli withdrawal from Gaza. The third phase focuses on the reconstruction of Gaza, which has suffered significant devastation due to the war.
Netanyahu has faced increasing pressure following Biden’s proposal, with the deal being negotiated through mediators. While Israel has accepted the framework, there remains a need for further negotiation and refinement before reaching a final agreement.
