Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has held discussions with United States President Joe Biden regarding ongoing efforts to secure a Gaza ceasefire and facilitate the release of hostages, according to statements released on Sunday.
Netanyahu’s office confirmed that he updated Biden on the latest developments in negotiations, as well as the directives given to the Israeli delegation in Doha aimed at advancing the hostages’ release. The prime minister expressed gratitude to Biden for his support, describing the effort as a “holy mission.”
The White House noted that the conversation included an exchange on the Doha negotiations, which are based on a proposal Biden introduced in May. During the call, the US president reiterated his appeal for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, the safe return of hostages, and enhanced humanitarian assistance to the region.
Biden also highlighted changes in regional dynamics, referencing last year’s ceasefire in Lebanon, the fall of former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s government in December, and Iran’s diminished influence across the region.
This marks the first publicly acknowledged conversation between Netanyahu and Biden since October 2024. The discussion coincided with Netanyahu’s meetings with two key cabinet ministers who have voiced strong opposition to Biden’s proposed ceasefire framework.
Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir have both criticised the proposal, which links a full ceasefire to the release of hostages, and have argued that military operations against Hamas must continue until the group is eliminated and all captives are freed.
The far-right ministers have previously warned of resignations and a potential collapse of Netanyahu’s coalition if the government were to agree to Biden’s terms.
Meanwhile, Israeli negotiators, including Mossad chief David Barnea, are participating in high-level talks in Doha and have reported “cautious optimism” about the progress made over the weekend.
Frances Ibiefo
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