The ceasefire talks come in the context of concern that the Israel-Gaza war may engulf the entire region.

Joe Biden has said he is “optimistic” that a Gaza ceasefire deal can be reached.

“We are closer than we’ve ever been,” the US president said following the latest round of talks, adding he was sending his secretary of state to Israel to continue the “intensive efforts to conclude this agreement”.

Amid concerns that Iran may launch an attack on Israel for the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran, Mr Biden said “no-one in the region should take actions to undermine this process”.

Hamas has expressed scepticism about the chances of a deal. And without mentioning the possibility of a ceasefire, Israel said it “appreciates the efforts of the US and the mediators to dissuade Hamas from its refusal to a hostage release deal”.

  • catloaf@lemm.eeEnglish
    171·
    3 months ago

    In the same way that the heat death of the universe is closer than ever, yes.

    Edit: actually, I expect the heat death of the universe to occur first.