The White House: Israel and Hamas are “closer than ever” to a ceasefire

According to the Guardian, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met with US President Joe Biden on Thursday and discussed ending the 9-month conflict in the Gaza Strip. 

The talks at the White House came amid unprecedented political unrest in the United States and domestic pressure on Israel’s prime minister, who is being asked to free dozens of Israeli prisoners still in captivity after a Hamas attack.

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During his visit to Washington, Netanyahu also met with Kamala Harris, the vice president of the United States, who will probably replace Biden as the Democratic candidate in the November elections.

After the talks in the White House, John Kirby, the US national security spokesman, said that in order to achieve peace in Gaza, both sides must make mutual concessions.

We must reach a ceasefire as soon as possible. Now we are closer than ever. Kirby said: Both sides must compromise.

Similar words were also expressed by Matt Miller, the spokesperson of the US Department of State.

This official said: I think the message from the American side in this meeting was that we should implement this agreement.

Kamala Harris, the vice president of the United States, said: At the same time, the American side is ready to put pressure on Israel if the situation in Gaza is not resolved in the near future.
Harris said: “Israel has the right to defend itself; And the way he does it is important. I have made it clear that I am seriously concerned about the appalling humanitarian situation in the region. I will not be silent.”

According to the Israeli media, this deal will include a phased exchange of prisoners between the two sides of the conflict. In the second phase, Israeli female soldiers are supposed to be released from Hamas captivity. In response, the Israeli army is ready to withdraw from a number of areas in Gaza and ensure the arrival of humanitarian aid in the region.

Translator: Azam Purkand