Daijiworld Media Network - Washington

Washington, Jan 13: President Joe Biden has emphasized the ‘immediate need’ for a ceasefire in Gaza and the return of Israeli captives in his recent conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The call came as ongoing talks for a ceasefire, mediated by the US, Egypt, and Qatar, continue in Doha, with the aim to halt the fighting before Donald Trump's inauguration on January 20.

The negotiations have seen multiple stalls despite nearing an agreement, but US officials remain hopeful of a breakthrough. The latest round of discussions includes Israel’s Mossad chief David Barnea and Biden’s Middle East adviser Brett McGurk.

Biden has called for a phased ceasefire, which was first announced in May of last year and later endorsed by the United Nations Security Council. The White House stressed the need for a humanitarian surge enabled by the fighting’s cessation.

However, talks remain complicated by disagreements over the release of captives and the extent of any Israeli troop withdrawal from Gaza. Netanyahu’s coalition has faced internal disagreements, with far-right members opposing the ceasefire proposal.

The conflict, which began after Hamas' attack on Israel in October 2023, has led to severe casualties, with over 46,000 Palestinians killed and more than 90% of Gaza’s population displaced. The violence continues, with Israel’s bombardment of Gaza ongoing, while international mediators rush to finalize the ceasefire deal.