President Biden spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday to discuss ongoing ceasefire and hostage release negotiations. The two leaders discussed a release deal first brought up in May 2023, which was unanimously endorsed by the UN Security Council. During their phone call, Biden discussed the changed regional circumstances following the ceasefire deal in Lebanon, the fall of the Assad regime in Syria, and the weakening of Iran’s power in the region.
The Biden administration, Egypt, and Qatar have been attempting to reach a compromise for over a year to secure the release of captured hostages and end the war between Israel and Hamas. However, negotiations have been strained, with Hamas demanding a full withdrawal and an end to fighting in exchange for releasing the captives, while Netanyahu has agreed only to a partial hostage release in exchange for a week-long halt in fighting.
Biden has emphasized the urgent need for a ceasefire and the return of hostages, as well as an increase in humanitarian aid. Netanyahu has stated he will not end the war until achieving a “complete victory” over Hamas. Netanyahu also expressed his gratitude to Biden for the support of Israel and the US backing for Israel’s security and national defense during the call.
