In a significant diplomatic development, US President Joe Biden held a conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday to assess the progress of ongoing negotiations in Doha, Qatar, regarding a potential ceasefire and hostage release deal in Gaza. The talks come amid heightened tensions and an escalating humanitarian crisis in the region.
The White House, in a statement, confirmed that the negotiations are being conducted by a high-level Israeli delegation, including Mossad Director David Barnea, Internal Security Agency Chief Ronen Bar, and Netanyahu’s Foreign Policy Adviser Ophir Falk. These discussions are centered on an arrangement proposed by President Biden on May 27, 2024, and subsequently endorsed by the UN Security Council.
“The two leaders discussed the ongoing negotiations in Doha for a ceasefire and hostage release deal based on the May 27, 2024, arrangement described by the President last year and endorsed unanimously by the UN Security Council,” the statement read.
President Biden underscored the urgency of achieving a ceasefire to facilitate the return of hostages and to allow for increased humanitarian aid in Gaza. He also emphasized the changing regional dynamics, referencing the ceasefire in Lebanon, the fall of the Assad regime in Syria, and Iran’s reduced influence in the region as critical factors shaping the geopolitical landscape.
During the call, Prime Minister Netanyahu provided updates on the mandate given to his negotiating team in Doha and expressed gratitude for the collaborative efforts of both President Biden and US President-elect Donald Trump. Netanyahu’s acknowledgment of bipartisan support reflects the strategic importance of US-Israel relations during this sensitive period.
