Biden And Netanyahu Discuss Ceasefire Efforts In Israel-Hamas War

Israeli soldiers and relatives carry the flag-draped casket of Sergeant Yahav Maayan, who was killed in combat in the Gaza Strip, during his funeral at a military cemetery in Modiin, Israel, Sunday, J

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and U.S. President Joe Biden engaged in discussions on Sunday regarding ongoing efforts to secure a ceasefire and hostage release deal in the Israel-Hamas conflict. The talks come amidst a heightened push to finalize an agreement before the upcoming inauguration next week.

Mediation efforts involving the United States, Egypt, and Qatar have faced repeated setbacks over the past year, often stalling when nearing a potential deal. However, recent optimism has been expressed by U.S. officials regarding the possibility of reaching a resolution.

The involvement of high-level officials, including Israel's Mossad foreign intelligence agency head and Biden's top Mideast adviser, in talks in the Qatari capital Doha signals a significant development. Both sides are working on finalizing a text for presentation, with hopes of reaching an agreement soon.

Mediation efforts by US, Egypt, and Qatar facing setbacks in Israel-Hamas conflict.

Ongoing talks between Netanyahu and Biden for ceasefire and hostage release deal.

High-level officials involved in talks in Doha signal significant progress.

Discussions focus on phased ceasefire plan with uncertainties about timeline.

Netanyahu proposes partial hostage release for temporary halt in hostilities.

Hamas demands complete Israeli troop withdrawal from Gaza.

Over 46,000 Palestinians, mainly women and children, reported killed in conflict.

Families of hostages in Gaza urge Netanyahu for their release.

International community monitors negotiations for lasting ceasefire and humanitarian resolution.

Follow latest updates on the war at AP News.

While progress has been made, uncertainties remain about the timeline for a potential deal. The White House and Netanyahu's office confirmed the leaders' phone call but did not disclose specific details.

Discussions revolve around a phased ceasefire plan, with Netanyahu indicating commitment to an initial phase involving a partial hostage release in exchange for a temporary halt in hostilities. Hamas, on the other hand, has demanded a complete Israeli troop withdrawal from Gaza, while Netanyahu emphasizes the need to neutralize Hamas' military capabilities.

The conflict in Gaza has resulted in significant casualties, with over 46,000 Palestinians, predominantly women and children, reported killed. The situation was triggered by a 2023 attack by Hamas, leading to widespread devastation and displacement.

Families of hostages held in Gaza are urging Netanyahu to secure their release, with public demonstrations in Israel underscoring the urgency of the situation. In Gaza, residents are cautiously optimistic about the prospect of a ceasefire, hoping for tangible progress on the ground.

As negotiations continue, the international community closely monitors developments in the Israel-Hamas conflict, with a focus on achieving a lasting ceasefire and resolving the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

Follow the latest updates on the war at AP News.