Official announcements from the White House or Israeli government

Biden Urges Immediate Ceasefire in Gaza, Hostage Deal Before Jan. 20

Jan 12, 2025, 05:12 PM

U.S. President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu discussed negotiations for a hostage release and ceasefire deal in Gaza during a phone call on Sunday. The conversation, confirmed by a White House official, highlighted the immediate need for a ceasefire in Gaza and the return of hostages, with Biden stressing the importance of enabling a surge in humanitarian aid through a stoppage in the fighting. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan indicated that the U.S. is very close to reaching an agreement before President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration on January 20. Sullivan also mentioned that Biden would soon speak with Netanyahu to further discuss these negotiations.