Bridging the Divide: Contrasting the 'Biden Plan' and 'Hamas Paper' Approaches for Gaza

The international community has been concerned over the longstanding conflict between Israel and Palestinian factions in the Gaza Strip, particularly the recent genocide campaign. A comprehensive peace plan has been proposed by the Biden administration, dubbed the “Biden Plan,” aimed at achieving a sustainable ceasefire and addressing various aspects of the conflict.

This report provides a detailed comparison between the “Biden Plan” and the previously proposed “Hamas Paper,” highlighting the key differences and amendments introduced by the Biden administration. By analyzing these differences, we can gain a better understanding of the potential implications and challenges that may arise from the implementation of the plan.

1.?Temporary Cessation of Operations:

?The Biden Plan: removed the word “mutual” from the clause describing the temporary cessation of military operations by both parties in the first 42-day phase. Hamas Paper: included the term “mutual” to emphasize a bilateral cessation of military operations.

2. Withdrawal of Israeli Forces:

Biden Plan specifies the withdrawal of Israeli forces eastward and away from densely populated areas to be stationed on the Gaza border during the first 42-day phase. Maintains the complete dismantling of military installations and sites on the 22nd day of the agreement. Hamas Paper: similar provisions for the withdrawal of Israeli forces and the dismantling of military installations.

3. Cessation of Flights:

Biden Plan: establishes a “temporary cessation of flights” (military and reconnaissance) in the Gaza Strip for 10 hours daily and for 12 hours on the days of prisoner exchanges. Hamas Paper also allowed for a temporary cessation of flights under similar conditions.

4. Release of Female Detainees:

Biden Plan: Increased the number of female detainees to be released from 3 to 7. Hamas Paper: Initially, it stipulated the release of three female detainees.

5. Release of Specific Detainees:

The Biden Plan explicitly stipulated the release of Hisham al-Sayed and Avera Mengistu among the 33 detainees who agreed to be released in the first stage. In exchange, Israel would release 47 prisoners from the Shalit deal. Hamas Paper: did not specify names but agreed on exchange numbers.

6. Conditions for Not Re-arresting Palestinian Prisoners:

Biden Plan: amended conditions to ensure release Palestinian prisoners would not be re-arrested based on the same charges, would not serve remaining sentences, and would not be required to sign any document as a condition for release. Hamas Paper: The original conditions were less detailed and possibly more stringent regarding re-arrest.

7. UNRWA Involvement:

Biden Plan: Deleted the name “UNRWA” (United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees) from the list of UN organizations that would operate in Gaza. Hamas Paper: Included UNRWA as part of the UN organizations to be involved.

8. Measures and Sanctions against Prisoners:

Biden Plan: deleted a paragraph related to lifting measures and sanctions taken against prisoners and detainees after October 7. The Hamas Paper included provisions for lifting measures and sanctions against prisoners and detainees.

9. Number of Wounded Soldiers:

Biden Plan: removed the specific number “50” from the number of wounded soldiers who would leave for Egypt through the Rafah crossing. Hamas Paper: specified the number of wounded soldiers to be transferred.

10. Ending the Siege in Gaza:

Biden Plan: removed the item “Ending the siege on the Gaza Strip” and proposed an alternative sentence about opening border crossings and facilitating the movement of residents and the transfer of goods. The Hamas Paper included a clause explicitly calling for the end of the Gaza siege.

11. UN as a Guarantor:

Biden Plan: removed the United Nations as a “guarantor” of the agreement, leaving only the United States, Qatar, and Egypt. Hamas Paper: included the United Nations as one of the guarantors of the agreement.

Accordingly, the “Biden Plan” represents a significant effort by the United States to broker a comprehensive agreement between the parties involved in the Gaza conflict. While the plan introduces several amendments and adjustments to the initial “Hamas Paper,” it also demonstrates a willingness to address the concerns and priorities of various stakeholders.

However, the successful implementation of the plan will likely face challenges, as it involves complex issues such as the release of detainees, the involvement of international organizations, and the lifting of measures affecting the blockade on Gaza. Overcoming these challenges will require genuine commitment from all parties involved, as well as sustained diplomatic efforts and international support.

Ultimately, the “Biden Plan” represents a step towards achieving a sustainable ceasefire and addressing the underlying issues in the Gaza Strip. Its success will depend on the ability of the involved parties to engage in constructive dialogue, make compromises, and work towards a lasting resolution that addresses the legitimate concerns of stopping the genocide.

Further Information:

?