Biden Urges Immediate Ceasefire in Call with Netanyahu as Hostage Deal Nears

Jan 12, 2025, 05:48 PM

President Joe Biden spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday to discuss ongoing negotiations for a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages held by Hamas. Netanyahu updated Biden on the progress of the negotiations, including the mandate given to the Israeli negotiating team in Doha. White House National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan told CNN that an agreement is "very, very close." According to reports, Biden emphasized the immediate need for a ceasefire, the return of the hostages, and a surge in humanitarian aid to the region.