Biden aims for ceasefire in Israel-Hamas conflict by next Monday

U.S. President Joe Biden expressed optimism on Monday for a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza, aiming for it to commence by next Monday.

Negotiations in Qatar, focusing on both a ceasefire and the release of hostages, have seen progress, with proximity talks indicating advanced negotiations.

Biden conveyed hope for a ceasefire within days, citing close collaboration with national security advisers.

U.S. negotiators have been vigorously pursuing a pause-for-hostages deal ahead of Ramadan’s beginning on March 10.

While public positions from Israel and Hamas remain distant on a truce, discussions between Israeli and Qatari officials have fueled optimism.

Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh said his group had embraced efforts to find an end to the war, accusing Israel of stalling while Gaza suffers.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu signaled readiness for a deal, urging Hamas to abandon unrealistic demands.

Talks centered on Qatar’s mediation for an immediate and lasting ceasefire, with Israel reportedly establishing an operational center in Qatar to support negotiations.

Despite Israel’s commitment to eradicate Hamas, pressure mounts for a truce, particularly to avert potential bloodshed in Rafah. Netanyahu insisted an assault on Rafah was still planned, despite potential opposition from Washington.

Talks gained momentum following discussions in Paris, emphasizing terms for a hostage release deal.

Meanwhile, Palestinian Authority Prime Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh resigned to facilitate consensus-building post-Gaza war, amid calls for PA reforms to govern Palestinian territories effectively.