Biden Outlines Three-Phase Plan to Wind Down Israel-Hamas Conflict

Speaking at the White House on Friday, President Joe Biden outlined a “road map to an enduring cease-fire and the release of all hostages” in the Israel-Hamas conflict. 

The Plan: Biden laid out a three-part plan to wind down the conflict. Phase one entails a 6-week ceasefire during which time Israeli forces would withdraw from populated areas of Gaza, Hamas would release a portion of the remaining hostages including women, the elderly, and the wounded, and Israel would release hundreds of Palestinian prisoners. In phase two, Hamas would release the remaining hostages, and Israeli forces would withdraw from Gaza completely. The third phase entails the start of reconstruction efforts in Gaza. 

Key Quotes: “And as long as Hamas lives up to its commitments,” Biden said, “the temporary cease-fire would become, in the words of the Israeli proposals, ‘the cessation of hostilities permanently.’” The president determined that Hamas is “no longer capable” of carrying out an attack like that one on Oct. 7, clearing the way for an end to hostilities in Gaza. Biden pledged the U.S. would be involved in efforts to rebuild Gaza, stating, “The United States will work with our partners to rebuild homes, schools, and hospitals in Gaza. To help repair communities that were destroyed in the chaos of war.” 

How the Media Covered It: Outlets across the spectrum covered Biden’s speech mildly, with the bulk of media attention still on former President Donald Trump’s felony convictions announced Thursday.