President Joe Biden has expressed optimism about the possibility of reaching a Gaza ceasefire deal, stating that the negotiations are closer than ever. Following recent talks, Biden announced that he is sending Secretary of State Antony Blinken to Israel to continue “intensive efforts” to finalize the agreement.
Amid concerns over a potential Iranian retaliation following the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran, Biden warned that no regional actor should take actions that could derail the peace process. While Hamas remains skeptical about a potential ceasefire, Israel has acknowledged the efforts of the U.S. and other mediators to persuade Hamas toward an agreement, though it stopped short of committing to a ceasefire.
The conflict escalated on October 7, when Hamas launched a major attack on southern Israel, resulting in around 1,200 deaths and 251 hostages being taken. In response, Israel initiated a military campaign in Gaza, leading to over 40,000 deaths according to Hamas-run health authorities in the region.
A previous ceasefire in November saw the release of 105 hostages by Hamas in exchange for a week-long truce and the freeing of 240 Palestinian prisoners from Israeli jails. Israel reports that 111 hostages are still being held, with 39 presumed dead.
The U.S., Qatar, and Egypt have proposed a new ceasefire and hostage release deal, claiming that it narrows the differences between Israel and Hamas. Israel has stipulated that any ceasefire must include the release of the remaining hostages. Relatives of those still held in Gaza see the ongoing negotiations as a “last chance” to secure their release.
With the conflict entering its tenth month and casualties continuing to rise, there is significant pressure for a diplomatic breakthrough. The fear of a broader regional war looms if negotiations collapse. Mediators have described recent discussions as serious and constructive, with technical teams set to continue working on the deal’s details. Senior officials will reconvene in Cairo to try and finalize the agreement, though significant challenges remain before a ceasefire can be reached.
