President Joe Biden held a crucial phone call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday, focusing on potential hostage negotiations and a cease-fire agreement in Gaza. The talks, which have slowed down in recent weeks, aim to secure the release of Israeli captives in exchange for a halt in the ongoing assault.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken is set to travel to Israel this week to assist in reinvigorating the discussions and pushing for progress. Biden made it clear during his conversation with Netanyahu that he opposes a ground invasion of Rafah, a southern Gaza city where most of the population is now concentrated due to the Israeli offensive.
In addition to discussing the delicate negotiations, Biden and Netanyahu also addressed the urgent need for humanitarian aid for Palestinian civilians in Gaza. The leaders are making preparations to open new northern crossings to facilitate the delivery of critical assistance.
Despite facing mounting pressure domestically to take a tougher stance against Israel, the White House reaffirmed Biden’s unwavering support for the country, particularly in the aftermath of drone and missile attacks by Iran earlier this month. Colleges have set up Gaza solidarity encampments, and politicians like Sen. Bernie Sanders have criticized Israel’s tactics, labeling them as “ethnic cleansing.”
The conversation between Biden and Netanyahu underscores the delicate balance the US administration is trying to maintain in handling the crisis in Gaza. With Blinken’s upcoming visit and ongoing efforts to broker a deal, the hope for a peaceful resolution to the conflict remains alive despite the challenges. Stay tuned as this situation continues to develop.
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