Biden wants to see significant de-escalation on the path to a ceasefire in Gaza.
On the 10th day of conflict between Israel and Palestine, President Biden spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu Wednesday morning, saying he “expects significant de-escalation today on the path to a ceasefire.”
The White House confirmed the two leaders had a discussion on the state of events in Gaza, Israelis’ progress in degrading the capabilities of Hamas and other terrorist elements, and ongoing diplomatic efforts by regional governments and the United States.
Wednesday was the first time President Biden set a deadline for when he would like to see an end to the violence between the two countries, which has led to civilian deaths.
According to Israeli authorities, 12 people have been killed in Israel, including two children. Health officials in Gaza say at least 219 have been killed, including 63 children and 36 women.
Biden’s conversation with Netanyahu has been the fourth call in the past week.
Hours after the phone call, Netanyahu said he is “ determined to continue this operation until its goal is achieved.”
So far, Biden has had over 60 calls in the past week, with senior leaders in Israel, the Palestinian Authority, and across the region. The administration will continue to remain engaged in intensive, quiet diplomacy to hold the current violence and find a way forward.