Pressure builds as ceasefire deal urged by White House

WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) – The Biden administration insisted Monday Hamas was the final hurdle in its effort to strike a ceasefire in Gaza.

State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller says the three-phase framework that would immediately stop fighting, free hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners, and ensure the reconstruction of Gaza was delivered to Hamas Thursday night.

President Biden outlined the details in a public speech Friday. Miller, reiterating the president, says the roadmap would also normalize relations between Israel and Arab nations in the region.

“This is a proposal that is in the long-term interests of Israel,” said Miller.

Over the weekend however, leaders from Israel’s conservative flank protested the deal. Some are threatening to break up their government if Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accepts the offer.

Miller says the reaction was “fully anticipated” but says the U.S. is “completely confident” Israel is on board, adding the proposal came from Israel.

“It’s’ Israel’s deal” said Miller.

Monday Netanyahu assured the public he is not caving to threats from the right. He also says a permanent ceasefire is a nonstarter until Hamas is eliminated.

President Biden made the case Friday that Hamas is no longer capable of an October 7th level attack and says the deal authorizes Israel to resume fighting if Hamas violates conditions.

Hamas leaders say they view the proposal positively but have not yet agreed to the terms.

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