In a pivotal phone call, President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu engaged in discussions on the pressing need for a ceasefire in Gaza, coinciding with growing momentum towards a deal involving hostages. With Biden wrapping up his presidency this week, the White House is pushing for an agreement as negotiations between Israel and Hamas inch forward, though considerable uncertainty remains regarding the specifics of any potential agreement.
Biden and Netanyahu Push for Gaza Ceasefire in Last Week of Presidency
Biden and Netanyahu Push for Gaza Ceasefire in Last Week of Presidency
As President Biden's term comes to a close, urgent discussions for a ceasefire in Gaza intensify, according to recent communications between him and Israeli PM Netanyahu.
The White House emphasized the "fundamentally changed regional circumstances" that have emerged, notably following Israel's ceasefire with Hezbollah and the decline of Iran's influence. Netanyahu briefed Biden on directives given to senior negotiators in Doha, aimed at facilitating hostage releases during the negotiations. In a Sunday call, Biden called for immediate action to enable humanitarian aid through a ceasefire and return of hostages.
Recent developments include Netanyahu sending a high-level security delegation to Qatar for indirect negotiations mediated by officials from Qatar, the US, and Egypt. Additionally, UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy met with his Israeli counterpart to discuss the ongoing negotiations.
Despite intensifying diplomatic efforts, experts express skepticism about the swift realization of a deal. Anshel Pfeffer from The Economist noted the history of stalled agreements but recognized a heightened sense of urgency as both Israel and Hamas look to secure a resolution before Biden's successor takes office.
The hostilities, sparked by Hamas's attack on October 7, 2023, have resulted in heavy casualties and the abduction of hostages. According to reports, the conflict has claimed more than 46,500 lives in Gaza, while Israeli authorities confirm that 94 hostages remain in captivity, amidst fears of escalated violence if a resolution is not reached soon.
Recent developments include Netanyahu sending a high-level security delegation to Qatar for indirect negotiations mediated by officials from Qatar, the US, and Egypt. Additionally, UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy met with his Israeli counterpart to discuss the ongoing negotiations.
Despite intensifying diplomatic efforts, experts express skepticism about the swift realization of a deal. Anshel Pfeffer from The Economist noted the history of stalled agreements but recognized a heightened sense of urgency as both Israel and Hamas look to secure a resolution before Biden's successor takes office.
The hostilities, sparked by Hamas's attack on October 7, 2023, have resulted in heavy casualties and the abduction of hostages. According to reports, the conflict has claimed more than 46,500 lives in Gaza, while Israeli authorities confirm that 94 hostages remain in captivity, amidst fears of escalated violence if a resolution is not reached soon.
