Israeli Jets Attack Near Turkish Border
US President Joe Biden’s ceasefire plan for the Gaza Strip has caused a stir in Israel, with the country quickly changing its stance within 24 hours of the proposal being made.
The White House is now urging Israel to accept the ceasefire plan if Hamas agrees to the terms that Israel has put on the table. National Security Spokesperson John Kirby stated, “This was Israel’s proposal. We expect that if Hamas accepts this proposal, Israel will also accept it.”
However, far-right politicians and hawks in the Israeli government are adamant that they will not accept a ceasefire unless Hamas is completely destroyed. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is under pressure from opponents within his own country, as his right-wing coalition government is on the brink of collapse due to disagreements over Israel’s war plan.
Members of the cabinet, such as National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, have threatened to bring down the government if Netanyahu accepts Biden’s proposal. Opposition leader Yair Lapid has offered his support to Netanyahu if these hardline politicians step back.
Families of hostages held in Gaza have been protesting for months, urging for a ceasefire agreement. Demonstrations have taken place in the streets of Tel Aviv, with tens of thousands demanding an end to the conflict.
Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant has outlined a plan to isolate areas in Gaza, remove Hamas operatives, and establish an alternative government. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has been in talks with Israeli officials, urging for a swift resolution to the conflict.
With a deadline set for June 8 by Benny Gantz, another critical figure in Israel’s war cabinet, there is mounting pressure on Netanyahu to make a decision. Gantz has threatened to resign if a post-war plan is not put in place.
European countries, as well as some in the Middle East, have expressed support for the ceasefire plan. Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong has also called for all parties to accept the ceasefire, stating, “This cannot continue.” The international community is closely watching the situation unfold as efforts are made to bring an end to the conflict in Gaza.
