Is Joe Biden’s ceasefire plan already failing? (Update)
Jun 12, 2024
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Senior foreign affairs reporter for the Huffington Post, Akbar Shahid Ahmed, discusses the potential ceasefire in Gaza backed by the UN Security Council. The podcast explores why an agreement has not yet been reached, challenges faced in implementation, Biden administration's policy, impact on Palestinians and Israelis, and factors influencing Biden's next move.
The proposed ceasefire in Gaza lacks progress due to US pressure issues and Israel's concerns.
US foreign policy experts have resigned over dissatisfaction with Biden's Gaza crisis handling and lack of support.
Deep dives
US Proposed Ceasefire in Gaza
The Biden administration has presented a multi-phase ceasefire proposal for Gaza, aiming to stop fighting temporarily, release hostages held by Hamas, and increase aid to Palestinians. This plan, unveiled on May 31st, includes negotiating a lasting ceasefire during the initial halt in hostilities. Despite Israel accepting the deal, significant progress has not been made, partly due to a lack of pressure from the US side.
Internal Dissent Over Gaza Policy
A significant number of US foreign policy experts have resigned in protest against the Biden administration's handling of the Gaza crisis. Dissenters, including high-level officials like Stacey Gilbert, feel sidelined and silenced since October, leading to frustration and internal pressure. Dissatisfaction stems from a perceived lack of support for addressing Israel's actions in Gaza and concerns over humanitarian assistance.
Challenges and Pressures Faced by Netanyahu
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces internal and external pressures regarding the Gaza conflict. Challenged by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's visit, Netanyahu must balance Israeli interests with US expectations for a ceasefire. Internally, Netanyahu's coalition with far-right members complicates negotiations and influences his military-focused approach, creating security concerns and reluctance towards ceasefire deals.
The US has a proposal for a ceasefire in Gaza, and this one seems to be gathering momentum.
It’s not much different to the previous plans, except that it’s backed by the UN Security Council.
The council’s resolution says Israel has accepted the deal, and Hamas has welcomed its adoption, but it hasn’t been signed. So, why not? What’s preventing an agreement on a ceasefire?
Today, senior foreign affairs reporter for the Huffington Post Akbar Shahid Ahmed on whether Gaza is any closer to a ceasefire.