Biden: No Gaza cease-fire deal soon as mediators work to bridge gaps

U.S. President Joe Biden has indicated that a cease-fire agreement in Gaza is not imminent, despite broad international support for the American-backed proposal that has yet to gain full acceptance from either Israel or Hamas.

At the Group of Seven summit in Italy, Biden confirmed that world leaders had discussed the cease-fire proposal. However, when questioned by reporters about the likelihood of reaching a truce soon, he simply responded, “No,” though he added, “I haven’t lost hope.”

Hamas responded to the proposal this week by suggesting amendments aimed at ensuring a permanent cease-fire and the complete withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza. While these provisions are included in Biden’s proposal, Hamas remains skeptical about Israel’s commitment to implementing them.

Earlier, U.S. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan addressed concerns about Israel’s commitment to the cease-fire plan, emphasizing the ongoing efforts to bridge gaps and finalize an agreement.

Meanwhile, on the Israel-Lebanon border, Hezbollah militants continued their attacks on Israeli military posts for a second consecutive day, using rockets and explosive drones. These actions were in retaliation for the killing of a senior Hezbollah commander. The escalation comes as some Israeli leaders have threatened to escalate to full-scale war to stop Hezbollah’s attacks, while Hezbollah seeks to pressure Israel during cease-fire negotiations in support of Hamas.

The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza has resulted in over 37,100 deaths, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry, which does not distinguish between combatants and civilians. The war has severely restricted the flow of food, medicine, and other supplies, leading to widespread hunger. U.N. agencies warn that over 1 million people in Gaza could face severe starvation by mid-July.

Israel initiated the conflict following Hamas’ October 7 attack, during which militants entered southern Israel, killing approximately 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and abducting around 250 individuals.