President Biden Discusses Cease-Fire Deal and Hostage Release with Israeli Prime Minister
President Biden and Prime Minister Netanyahu Discuss Cease-Fire Deal and Hostage Release in Gaza
President Biden spoke with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel on Sunday to discuss the prospects of a possible cease-fire deal to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas. The call comes as Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken embarked on his latest trip to the Middle East to work towards scaling back the war in Gaza.
During the call, President Biden and Prime Minister Netanyahu focused on the possible cease-fire and hostages deal, with American officials stating that Israel has accepted the U.S.-drafted plan. The onus remains on Hamas to accept the latest proposal, according to the officials.
Secretary Blinken, who is leading the Biden administration’s efforts to broker a cessation to the war, increase humanitarian aid, and win the release of hostages in Gaza, is set to meet with Arab and European officials in Saudi Arabia to discuss plans for rebuilding Gaza.
The call between President Biden and Prime Minister Netanyahu also addressed the recent hostage videos released by Hamas, including those showing two hostages with American citizenship. The two leaders reviewed ongoing talks to secure the release of hostages and an immediate cease-fire in Gaza.
With protests erupting on American college campuses and critics of the Netanyahu government calling for more significant changes, the White House emphasized the need for sustained progress in delivering humanitarian assistance to Gaza.
As the immediate threat of a wider war appears to be fading, the focus remains on reaching a cease-fire agreement that would halt hostilities for six weeks and result in the release of hostages held by Hamas. Both sides are considering proposals to end the conflict and avoid further escalation.
Overall, the call between President Biden and Prime Minister Netanyahu underscores the ongoing efforts to secure a cease-fire and release hostages in Gaza, with hopes for a lasting peace in the region.
