President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held a significant conversation on Sunday, focusing on the ongoing negotiations for a ceasefire and hostage release deal with Hamas. The talks, mediated by the United States, Egypt, and Qatar, are taking place in Doha and are seen as a critical step toward de-escalating the violence in Gaza.
The White House confirmed the call, stating that Biden and Netanyahu discussed the deal based on an arrangement previously outlined by the president. Biden emphasized the need for an immediate ceasefire, the return of hostages, and a surge in humanitarian aid for Gaza’s civilians. According to a statement, Biden also noted the changing regional dynamics, including the ceasefire in Lebanon, the collapse of the Assad regime in Syria, and a perceived weakening of Iran’s influence in the area.
Netanyahu provided Biden with updates on the progress of the negotiations and detailed the mandate given to Israel’s negotiating team in Doha. Mossad Director David Barnea, a key figure in Israeli intelligence, is expected to travel to Qatar to oversee the final stages of the discussions. His involvement signals a critical phase in the negotiations, as Barnea’s approval would be essential for any finalized agreement.
The Biden administration has been pushing for a resolution before the presidential inauguration on January 20, which will mark the return of President-elect Donald Trump to the White House. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed optimism, stating that a deal is “very close.” However, officials remain cautious, acknowledging previous instances where talks faltered despite signs of progress.
The proposed agreement would include a ceasefire and a phased approach to releasing hostages and prisoners. The first phase involves Hamas releasing women, children, and hostages over 50 years old, with Israel reciprocating by freeing Palestinian women and children prisoners. Humanitarian aid would flow into Gaza during the ceasefire, and negotiations for subsequent phases, including broader reconstruction efforts, would continue.
Trump’s incoming special envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, has already engaged in preliminary talks in Qatar and Israel. His role will become more prominent as the Trump administration takes charge of the deal’s implementation, should it be finalized before the transition of power.
The backdrop to these negotiations is a devastating conflict. On October 7, 2023, Hamas militants launched a surprise attack that killed approximately 1,200 Israelis and took 251 hostages. In response, Israel declared war on Hamas and initiated a massive military campaign in Gaza. The ongoing offensive has led to the deaths of over 46,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry, and has left much of the region in ruins. Humanitarian organizations warn of severe crises as civilians face displacement and shortages of essential resources.
The stakes in Doha are high. A successful agreement could provide much-needed relief to the region and pave the way for broader peace talks. However, the path forward remains uncertain, with both sides wary of the other’s commitments and intentions. For Biden, securing a deal would mark a significant diplomatic achievement as his presidency concludes. For Netanyahu, it represents an opportunity to balance military objectives with international pressure for peace.
As talks continue, the world watches closely, hoping that the negotiations can deliver a breakthrough in one of the world’s most protracted and painful conflicts.