US President Biden optimistic about ceasefire in Israel-Gaza conflict by next Monday

New Delhi, Feb 27 : According to CNN, US President Joe Biden expressed hope for a ceasefire in the Israel-Gaza conflict by "next Monday" as the death toll in Gaza rises, with health officials reporting nearly 30,000 casualties.

Speaking during an appearance at an ice cream shop in New York City with comedian Seth Meyers, Biden stated, "My national security adviser tells me that we’re close. We’re close, it’s not done yet. And my hope is that by next Monday we’ll have a ceasefire."

CNN further reported that earlier on Monday, Hamas backed off some key demands in negotiations for a hostage deal and pause in the Gaza conflict.

There are speculations in the media that the deal may involve 400 Palestinian prisoners and 40 captives believed to be held in Gaza.

This move followed Israeli accusations that their position was "delusional," bringing the negotiating parties closer to an initial agreement. Media quoting the sources familiar with the discussions stated that "The major obstacles have been resolved... Their requirements for the numbers of Palestinians [prisoners] would have to be freed has declined."

According to a senior Biden administration official, Hamas softened its position ahead of an agreement on the first phase of a deal, though more challenging hurdles are expected later in the negotiation process.

In response to Biden's optimism for a ceasefire by Monday, an Israeli official told CNN that Israel was "surprised" but hoped for a deal involving the release of about 40 hostages, including female Israeli soldiers.

The official emphasized Israel's readiness to make a deal under the right conditions and confirmed the accuracy of news reports regarding the number of hostages involved.

The negotiation process is anticipated to occur in multiple phases, with more sensitive topics, such as the release of Israeli soldiers and withdrawal of IDF forces, addressed in later stages. The Israeli official indicated that the country was prepared to release Palestinian prisoners if conditions were met, including the release of women soldiers. CNN records suggest that 13 Israeli women, including five of military age, are still being held hostage.

Hamas reached a breakthrough deal in November of last year, securing the release of 105 hostages held by Hamas. The agreement also entailed a four-day pause in fighting, which ultimately was extended.

Negotiations in Doha

In a bid to advance negotiations for a temporary ceasefire and the release of hostages, teams from various countries met in Doha on Monday following discussions in Paris on Friday.

Israeli leaders expressed their intention to launch a military offensive into Rafah, while Hamas proposed using a second phase of talks to address the conditions necessary for the continuation of the ceasefire.

State Department spokesperson Matt Miller indicated progress in the discussions, stating, "We did make progress in these conversations over the weekend and the last few days." Miller emphasized the continued pursuit of a deal and urged Hamas to agree to the terms on the table, which could alleviate the suffering of Palestinians.

US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan highlighted the necessity of indirect discussions with Hamas by Qatar and Egypt, underscoring the need for Hamas's agreement to release the hostages.

Israel confirmed its participation in the discussions in Doha, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressing openness to a deal if Hamas comes to terms with reality.

President Joe Biden acknowledged shifting international support for Israel amid the rising humanitarian toll in Gaza, emphasizing the need for Israel to consider the consequences of continued conflict. Netanyahu faces pressure from the Israeli public to free the hostages, including those believed to be deceased.

Despite warnings from the US against a military offensive into Rafah without a comprehensive plan ensuring the safety of Palestinians, Netanyahu affirmed his intention to proceed, emphasizing the goal of "total victory."

The situation remains tense as negotiations continue, with Netanyahu asserting that Israel will take action in Rafah with or without a hostage deal, underscoring the determination to eliminate the Hamas stronghold.

Meanwhile in Gaza, amidst a dire humanitarian crisis, residents are desperately seeking food, water, and essentials as the death toll reaches 30,000.

With nearly all medical facilities closed, there is no relief in sight for the suffering population. In Gaza City, a large crowd of hungry and desperate Palestinians is seen scrambling for bags of flour, raising concerns among aid agencies about the potential looting of their supplies.

In response to the escalating situation, the Royal Jordanian Air Force conducted a significant airdrop operation off the coast of the Gaza Strip, delivering much-needed aid to the affected areas.

Meanwhile, the US Mission has circulated a draft resolution among members of the UN Security Council, expressing support for urgent diplomatic efforts aimed at achieving a temporary ceasefire agreement.