Biden not giving up on efforts for Gaza ceasefire and hostage return, White House says

U.S. President Joe Biden is committed to achieving a ceasefire in Gaza and negotiating a hostage agreement with Hamas, while also aiming to reduce tensions along Israel’s border with Lebanon, according to White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan on Tuesday.

“He is fully engaged and has not lost hope,” Sullivan stated during an interview with MSNBC, just hours before Biden’s final address to the UN General Assembly as president.

Biden plans to meet with global leaders in New York to discuss a ceasefire and a hostage resolution in Gaza, with the goal of preventing a broader conflict in the Middle East, Sullivan noted.

He recognized the difficulties in persuading both Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar to reach an agreement, mentioning that Hamas and Sinwar, in particular, are resistant to negotiations.

“Nonetheless, we are resolute in our efforts,” Sullivan affirmed.

The United States has been actively engaged in efforts to mitigate tensions in the region following Hamas’ assault on Israel from Gaza on October 7, which triggered nearly a year of Israeli military responses in the coastal area.

The ongoing conflict with Hezbollah along Israel’s northern border has experienced fluctuations since October 7, with current tensions rising, according to reports.

However, Sullivan expressed confidence, stating, “We have successfully navigated previous escalations, and I believe there remains an opportunity to pursue de-escalation between Israel and Lebanon, ultimately leading to a diplomatic resolution that enables people to return to their homes.”