Progress in Gaza Ceasefire Talks: Biden Expresses Hope for Resolution by Next Monday
President Joe Biden has expressed optimism regarding a potential ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas conflict, stating that he hopes for a resolution by “next Monday.” During an appearance at an ice cream shop in New York City alongside comedian Seth Meyers, Biden indicated that his national security adviser had conveyed that the parties involved are close to an agreement.
In recent developments reported by CNN, Hamas has reportedly adjusted some key demands in negotiations for a hostage deal and a pause in the fighting in Gaza. This shift in position comes after Israeli accusations deemed Hamas’s initial stance as “delusional.” According to sources familiar with the discussions, these adjustments bring the negotiating parties closer to an initial agreement that could lead to a ceasefire and the release of Israeli hostages.
A senior Biden administration official informed CNN that major obstacles, particularly Hamas insisting on a complete withdrawal of Israeli forces and an end to the war, have been resolved. Additionally, Hamas has reportedly reduced its requirements for the number of Palestinian prisoners to be freed.
President Joe Biden said that a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas could begin in roughly a week
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While progress has been made in the discussions held in Paris on Friday involving the US, Egyptian, and Israeli intelligence chiefs, as well as the Qatari prime minister, challenges are anticipated in future phases of the agreement. The next stages are expected to address sensitive topics such as the release of Israeli soldiers held as hostages, the withdrawal of IDF forces, and achieving a permanent end to the war.
The negotiations are set to proceed in multiple phases, with the possibility of a truce lasting up to six weeks once an initial deal is reached. The second phase is expected to involve more complex issues, including the release of Israeli soldiers and the withdrawal of IDF forces.
Teams from the participating countries convened in Doha on Monday to discuss the finer details of the broad issues addressed in the Paris meeting, signaling ongoing progress. State Department spokesperson Matt Miller stated that significant progress had been made over the weekend, expressing the belief that a deal is possible.
US national security adviser Jake Sullivan highlighted the ongoing efforts and emphasized the need for Hamas to agree to the deal on the table. Israel confirmed its participation in the discussions in Doha, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressing a desire for a deal that addresses the release of hostages.
Despite facing pressure from the Israeli public to secure the release of over 130 hostages in Gaza, Netanyahu reiterated plans to order the Israeli army into Rafah. He emphasized the goal of “total victory” and expressed a commitment to addressing the last Hamas stronghold. The situation remains dynamic, with the hope of achieving a firm and final agreement in the coming days.