US President Biden Holds Talks with Qatar and Egypt Leaders on Hostage Deal
WASHINGTON — President Joe Biden spoke with the leaders of Egypt, Israel, and Qatar on Wednesday, marking his first publicly announced discussions with them since the recent hostage deal between Israel and Hamas. The White House confirmed that Biden and his administration negotiated through Qatar and Egypt to facilitate the agreement, which will see Hamas release at least 50 hostages and Israel releasing numerous Palestinian prisoners. Additionally, Israel will observe a four-day truce to alleviate the devastating impact on Gaza.
During his phone call with Qatar Emir Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani, Biden emphasized their commitment to maintaining close contact to ensure full implementation of the deal. The White House’s readout of the call highlighted their mutual agreement on protecting civilian lives, upholding international humanitarian law, and increasing humanitarian assistance to Palestinians in Gaza.
However, the exact timeline for the cessation of hostilities and the exchange of hostages remains uncertain. Israeli officials have informed AFP that there will be no pause until Friday, which delays the eagerly anticipated lull that had been expected to commence at 10:00 a.m. local time.
Biden also discussed the situation with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi and stressed that the United States will not permit the forced relocation of Palestinians from Gaza or the West Bank, nor the redrawing of Gaza’s borders. Furthermore, he acknowledged the imperative role played by Egypt in establishing the necessary conditions for the creation of a Palestinian state.
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