Biden Confirms U.S. Efforts to Broker Gaza Ceasefire

President Joe Biden has revealed plans for the United States to ramp up diplomatic efforts in the coming days to secure a ceasefire in Gaza. Biden emphasized collaboration with Turkey, Egypt, Qatar, Israel, and other key allies to de-escalate the ongoing conflict and facilitate the release of hostages.

Taking to X (formerly Twitter) on Wednesday, Biden stated, “Over the coming days, the United States will make another push to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza. We will also work to secure the release of hostages and seek an end to the war without Hamas in power.”

The announcement comes amid reports of the International Criminal Court (ICC) issuing arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, and Hamas military chief Mohammed Deif. The ICC has accused the individuals of war crimes and crimes against humanity stemming from actions during the conflict in Gaza.

Countries such as Italy, the Netherlands, and Canada have pledged to enforce the ICC’s warrants. Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto has stated that Italy would detain Netanyahu should he visit the country, according to Daily Sabah.

The conflict has had devastating effects on Gaza, with nearly all of the territory’s 2.3 million residents displaced and dependent on humanitarian aid. According to local health officials, over 44,000 Palestinians, primarily women and children, have lost their lives.

The war began after a cross-border attack by Hamas on October 7, 2023, which resulted in the deaths of approximately 1,200 people in Israel.