WASHINGTON, USA: A US official stated on Wednesday that negotiations for a truce in Gaza and a deal for the release of hostages are “closing stages,” ahead of a meeting between President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. In talks with Netanyahu at the White House on Thursday, Biden hopes to close the remaining gaps, but important issues—like the hostages’ fate—remain dependent on Hamas.
“We believe it’s in the closing stages and a deal is closeable,” stated the US official, who spoke anonymously. The official emphasized the urgency of reaching an agreement, noting that it is “not only possible, it’s essential and necessary.”
The talks will focus on the mechanics of the deal rather than the fiery rhetoric Netanyahu used in his congressional speech, where he pledged “total victory.” The official noted that the final hurdles are related to how the deal will be implemented, with Hamas easing its demand for a full Israeli pull-out.
“I don’t expect the meeting (with Netanyahu) to be a yes or no, it’s a kind of like ‘how do we close these final gaps?'” the official explained. While some aspects require Israeli concessions, the critical decisions lie with Hamas, which holds the hostages.
The conflict, which began on October 7 with a Hamas attack resulting in 1,197 Israeli deaths, mostly civilians, and 251 hostages taken, has led to significant casualties. According to the Hamas-run Gaza health ministry, over 39,100 Palestinians, predominantly civilians mostly women and children, have been killed since the war broke out.
The next steps in the negotiations are crucial, with intense activity expected in the coming week to finalize the long-sought deal.
