President Joe Biden indicated on Monday that a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas is nearing completion, expressing hope for a cessation of hostilities by the following Monday. Speaking at Van Leeuwen’s ice cream shop in New York City after an appearance on NBC’s “Late Night” with Seth Meyers, Biden conveyed his administration’s optimism regarding the progress made in negotiations.
During his visit to New York, Biden encountered pro-Palestinian demonstrators at 30 Rockefeller Plaza, where over 50 protesters were reportedly arrested for disrupting the president’s appearance on the late-night show. The protesters, organized by Jewish Voice for Peace NYC, demanded an end to what they described as Israeli government-led genocide against Palestinians in Gaza.
Biden (Credits: Washington Times)
U.S. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan disclosed on CNN’s “State of the Union” that negotiators meeting in Paris had reached a consensus on the fundamental elements of a deal aimed at securing the release of remaining Israeli hostages in exchange for a cease-fire. Sullivan emphasized the ongoing efforts to solidify a definitive agreement, underscoring the importance of Hamas’s cooperation in facilitating the release of hostages.
The negotiations involving Israel, the United States, Egypt, and Qatar have been a focal point in the quest for a resolution to the conflict. Sullivan reiterated the desire to see the safe return of hostages, including American citizens, underscoring the significance of reaching a comprehensive agreement to end the violence.
Since Israel’s declaration of war in Gaza following a Hamas terror attack in October, the conflict has resulted in a significant loss of life and ongoing humanitarian concerns. With casualties mounting on both sides, the urgency to achieve a lasting cease-fire remains a top priority for the international community, with hopes pinned on the ongoing negotiations to bring an end to the violence.
