In a significant development, U.S. President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held a phone call on January 12, 2025, to discuss ongoing efforts to secure a ceasefire in Gaza and facilitate the release of hostages. This conversation, the first publicly announced call between the two leaders since October 2024, comes as momentum builds for a potential deal ahead of President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration on January 20, 2025.
Key Points of the Discussion
Ceasefire and Hostage Release
Biden
emphasized the “immediate need for a ceasefire in Gaza” and the return
of hostages, alongside a surge in humanitarian aid enabled by a halt in
fighting. Netanyahu updated Biden on the progress of negotiations in
Doha, Qatar, where high-level Israeli officials, including Mossad chief
David Barnea, are involved in talks.
Phased Ceasefire Proposal
The
discussions are based on a phased ceasefire proposal outlined by Biden
in May 2024, which includes the release of hostages in exchange for a
temporary halt in fighting. However, Netanyahu has signaled commitment
only to the first phase, while Hamas insists on a full Israeli troop
withdrawal from Gaza.
Regional Developments
Biden
highlighted the “fundamentally changed regional circumstances,”
including the ceasefire with Hezbollah in Lebanon, the fall of the Assad
regime in Syria, and the weakening of Iran’s influence in the region.
These changes have created a more favorable environment for
negotiations.
Challenges and Sticking Points
Hamas’ Demands
Hamas
has demanded a permanent ceasefire and a full Israeli withdrawal from
Gaza, which Netanyahu has rejected, insisting on the destruction of
Hamas’ military capabilities.
Internal Israeli Politics
Netanyahu
faces pressure from far-right members of his coalition, such as Finance
Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben
Gvir, who oppose any ceasefire deal. These ministers have threatened to
resign if Netanyahu agrees to a truce, potentially collapsing his
government.
Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza
The ongoing conflict has devastated Gaza, with over 46,000 Palestinians killed and more than 90% of the population displaced. The humanitarian situation is dire, with hospitals struggling to operate due to fuel shortages and a lack of medical supplies.
International Mediation Efforts
Role of Qatar, Egypt, and the U.S.
Mediators
from Qatar, Egypt, and the U.S. have been working tirelessly to bridge
the gap between Israel and Hamas. Brett McGurk, Biden’s top Middle East
adviser, is currently in Doha finalizing the details of a potential
agreement.
Trump’s Incoming Administration
President-elect
Donald Trump has expressed urgency in resolving the hostage crisis
before his inauguration, warning that “all hell will break loose” if a
deal is not reached. His envoy, Steve Witkoff, has been actively
involved in the negotiations.
Conclusion
The Biden-Netanyahu call underscores the urgency of reaching a ceasefire and hostage release deal before the U.S. presidential transition. While significant progress has been made, challenges remain, particularly regarding Hamas’ demands and internal Israeli politics. The international community continues to push for a resolution, hoping to alleviate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and bring an end to the conflict.
