Biden Urges Netanyahu for Immediate Gaza Cease-fire “`

January 14, 2025 by No Comments

A ceasefire in Gaza and a hostage release agreement seem imminent, according to a Monday statement from Hamas. The statement declared a renewed commitment to their people and confirmed the impending release of prisoners, following overnight Qatari negotiations and a Sunday phone call between President Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

White House officials confirmed the call addressed a hostage release deal initially discussed last May, a deal unanimously endorsed by the UN Security Council.

The proposed three-stage deal begins with the release of hostages deemed “humanitarian.” 

Al-Arabiya reported that this initial 42-day phase includes Israeli troop withdrawals from certain areas, allowing residents’ return, and increased humanitarian aid.

According to Israel’s 12 News, the second stage, commencing on day 16 of the ceasefire, involves discussions regarding the return of soldiers and young men, with the remaining Israeli forces’ withdrawal from Gaza.

The final stage will focus on establishing a new Gaza government and rebuilding the region after over a year of conflict.

Israel’s Channel 12 reported that Hamas faces a deadline of midnight (Israeli time) to respond to the final draft of the hostage-ceasefire agreement.

Following the October 7, 2023 attacks, Hamas reportedly holds 96 hostages, with an estimated 50 still alive, including three Americans. The return of deceased hostages remains unclear.

The White House statement noted that President Biden discussed the altered regional landscape post-ceasefire in Lebanon, the fall of the Assad regime in Syria, and Iran’s weakened regional influence.

For the past year, the Biden administration, Egypt, and Qatar have worked towards a compromise to secure hostage release and end the conflict between Israel and Hamas.

Negotiations have been strained, with Hamas insisting on a complete end to hostilities before a release, while Netanyahu seeks “total victory” over Hamas.

Biden stressed the urgent need for a ceasefire and hostage return accompanied by increased humanitarian aid, although he’s reportedly only committed to the initial phase—a partial hostage release for a week-long truce. Hamas demands full withdrawal and a complete ceasefire.

Netanyahu thanked Biden for his support of Israel and American assistance with its defense.

Yaara Litwin contributed to this report.