A guaranteed end to the war will ensure increased humanitarian aid to Gaza, preserve Israel's security, and create a better "day after" in the enclave without Hamas in power. It will also de-escalate the situation on the Lebanese border. It is unfortunate that Hamas did not respond with a resounding "yes" to this thoughtful proposal, but the US will continue to work toward closing the gaps.
The fact that the Biden admin. thinks it's appropriate to try to pressure Israel into allowing Hamas to stay in power in Gaza is deeply disappointing. If Israel does not destroy Hamas, the group will immediately begin planning the next Oct. 7 terrorist attack. Israel must get the hostages back and eliminate Hamas.
It should be clear after almost eight months of grinding brutality that Israel's true goal is to destroy Gaza and starve its people. Israel is simply not interested in committing to a permanent cease-fire, as Israeli officials have made clear that once the hostages are returned, they will restart the war. Indeed, the US, aware of Israel's intransigence, refuses to do what is necessary to end this ruthless campaign.