U.S. President Joe Biden expressed confidence that a ceasefire deal between Hamas and Israel was close to being finalized, even as intense fighting raged in Gaza.
In a statement on January 13, 2025, Biden said that negotiations for a truce, which would also facilitate the release of hostages, were nearly complete.
The efforts to secure the ceasefire have been ramped up by international mediators, including Qatar, Egypt, and the U.S.
The negotiations, which began in January, aim to bring an end to the ongoing conflict, which has claimed thousands of lives since October 2023.
Biden noted that the proposal, initially outlined months ago, was on the brink of becoming a reality.
White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan also suggested that a ceasefire could be finalized soon, with the potential to reach an agreement by the end of the week.
A source close to the talks mentioned that progress had been made, with a new proposal being presented to both sides, and key issues such as humanitarian aid, the return of displaced Palestinians, and the withdrawal of Israeli troops still under negotiation.
Despite these advancements, tensions within Israel’s ruling coalition remain.
Far-right figures like Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich have voiced strong opposition to halting the war, emphasizing the need for continued military action in Gaza.
However, Israeli officials have acknowledged the importance of securing a deal, especially to bring hostages home.
The conflict has resulted in heavy casualties, with over 46,000 Palestinians killed and more than 1,200 Israelis dead since the violence erupted.
On January 13, Israeli military airstrikes targeted Gaza City, killing over 50 Palestinians, while five Israeli soldiers also lost their lives in ongoing fighting.
As the diplomatic push for a ceasefire continues, the world watches closely, hoping for an end to the violence and a path toward peace.
