Outgoing President Joe Biden celebrated a six-week ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages as a pivotal moment for peace, while emphasizing the importance of diplomacy backed by U.S. support for Israel.
Biden Hails Gaza Ceasefire and Hostage Release
President Joe Biden praised the ceasefire agreement in Gaza, highlighting it as a significant step toward peace after 15 months of conflict. Biden also celebrated the release of three Israeli hostages and defended his administration’s continued support for Israel despite criticism.
Defense of U.S. Support for Israel
Biden emphasized that maintaining U.S. backing for Israel throughout the conflict was essential to achieving the ceasefire. He argued that abandoning support could have led to a wider regional conflict. Biden noted the significant weakening of Hamas and its regional sponsors as a turning point in the Middle East.
Details of the Ceasefire Agreement
The ceasefire includes the release of 33 Israeli hostages and hundreds of Palestinian prisoners. This follows a similar agreement in November 2024, which ended fighting between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon. The initial six-week pause in hostilities is expected to lead to further negotiations under the incoming Trump administration.
Passing the Baton to the Trump Administration
Biden stressed that implementing and building on the ceasefire agreement will require persistence and diplomacy under the Trump administration. He emphasized the importance of maintaining support for allies in the region and continuing a strategy of deterrence.
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