U.S. President Joe Biden is looking forward to a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on July 22 to discuss the ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip.
White House national security advisor Jake Sullivan confirmed the meeting during an interview at the Aspen Security Forum on July 19.
The meeting will provide an opportunity for the two leaders to discuss ceasefire negotiations face to face, as the Biden administration has indicated that a deal may be close.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken mentioned on July 19 that negotiators are close to a deal, with Mr. Sullivan highlighting the challenges of finalizing the agreement.
The current negotiations involve a three-phase proposal, with the first phase focusing on a temporary cease-fire period of at least six weeks. The subsequent phases aim to establish a more permanent cease-fire and address humanitarian efforts and the long-term disposition of the Gaza Strip.
Mr. Sullivan emphasized the importance of working through the obstacles to reach a deal and expressed optimism about the upcoming discussions between President Biden and Prime Minister Netanyahu.
Regarding Mr. Netanyahu’s upcoming speech before Congress, Mr. Sullivan noted that it is not expected to be as contentious as his previous address in 2015. The White House is informed about the themes and arguments Mr. Netanyahu plans to present in his speech.
President Biden, who has been recovering from a COVID-19 infection, is expected to meet with Mr. Netanyahu following his statement on July 19 indicating his return to campaigning against former President Donald Trump next week.
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