Biden and Netanyahu intensify talks on Gaza hostage deal and ceasefire ahead of January deadline

As the deadline for President Biden’s term draws closer, intense negotiations are unfolding to address the crisis in Gaza. During a meeting in Washington, President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu discussed the possibility of a ceasefire and the release of hostages by January 20, 2025, just days before the new administration takes over. The stakes are high, as both sides push for a resolution amid rising tensions in the region.

According to officials from both Israel and the United States, the indirect negotiations between Israel and Hamas have reached a critical juncture. In an unusual move, Biden’s team is closely working with President-elect Donald Trump’s team. The joint effort highlights the urgency of finding a solution to the ongoing violence that has gripped Gaza. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan confirmed the urgency, stating on CNN’s State of the Union, “We are very, very close [to a deal], but we are not there yet. It is possible, but not certain, that we can finalise it before January 20.”

For weeks, both American and Israeli officials have been working tirelessly to secure an agreement. Netanyahu has briefed Biden on the progress made thus far, outlining the mandates given to Israeli negotiators in their ongoing efforts. The main objectives are clear: achieve an immediate ceasefire, secure the return of hostages, and allow the delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza.

The behind-the-scenes work has seen Biden’s top Middle East adviser, Brett McGurk, working in Doha to finalise the terms of the deal. In recent days, Trump’s envoy Steve Witkoff has joined the efforts, meeting with Netanyahu in Israel before returning to Doha. Israeli officials, including Mossad Director David Barnea and Shin Bet Director Ronen Bar, have also travelled to Doha to help facilitate progress.

The situation remains fluid, and despite the optimism surrounding the talks, the looming January deadline means that time is rapidly running out. Both sides are under immense pressure to deliver, not just for the sake of the hostages, but for the people of Gaza who are caught in the middle of the conflict. The coming days will be critical, as negotiators push to finalise the terms before the transition of power in Washington.