The White House confirmed on Sunday that U.S. President Joe Biden had a conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu regarding the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. The discussion occurred amidst growing international pressure for a resolution to the nearly seven-month-long war in Gaza.
During the call, President Biden reiterated his stance opposing Israel’s plans to invade the southern Gaza city of Rafah, citing humanitarian concerns for the over one million Palestinians residing there. The U.S. has consistently advocated for a peaceful resolution to the conflict, with Biden stressing the importance of sustained and enhanced delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza.
The conversation between Biden and Netanyahu comes as U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken prepares to return to the Middle East on Monday. His visit aims to address the escalating tensions and facilitate negotiations between the parties involved.
Meanwhile, a senior official from Qatar, a key intermediary in the region, urged both Israel and Hamas to demonstrate greater commitment and seriousness in the negotiations. Qatar has played a crucial role in past cease-fire agreements and hostage releases but recently expressed frustration with the lack of progress.
In response to the international pressure, an Israeli delegation is expected to travel to Egypt to discuss new proposals for a prolonged cease-fire in Gaza. Hamas, the militant group governing Gaza, is reportedly reviewing Israel’s cease-fire proposal, which includes the release of civilian and sick hostages held by Hamas in exchange for the freedom of Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails.
The mounting pressure for a cease-fire deal aims to prevent a potential Israeli invasion of Rafah, where a significant portion of Gaza’s population seeks shelter. Israel’s troop buildup near the Gaza border has raised concerns about further escalation and humanitarian consequences in the region.
While Israel maintains that its military actions target Hamas militants, aid groups warn of worsening humanitarian conditions in Gaza, where hunger and displacement are widespread. Efforts to deliver aid to Gaza have faced logistical challenges, but organizations like World Central Kitchen have announced plans to resume operations and provide essential supplies to the region.
As diplomatic efforts intensify and tensions remain high, the international community continues to call for a peaceful resolution to the conflict, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing the welfare of civilians caught in the crossfire.