The United States has announced that a ceasefire agreement in Gaza could potentially be reached as early as this week, despite ongoing intensive Israeli military operations in the region. Outgoing US President Joe Biden expressed optimism during a foreign policy address, emphasising that progress on a detailed proposal he had laid out months ago was imminent. Biden stressed his unwavering commitment to pursuing a resolution, stating, “We’re pressing hard to close this.” Similarly, National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan indicated during a press briefing that a deal was possible within days, although he cautioned that its success was not guaranteed. Sullivan also confirmed that Biden had recently engaged with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani to advance the negotiations.

Ceasefire discussions, mediated by the United States alongside Qatar and Egypt, are reportedly in advanced stages in Doha. Senior Israeli representatives, including the heads of Mossad and Shin Bet, remain in the Qatari capital for negotiations. At the same time, Hamas has acknowledged progress on contentious issues following over 15 months of conflict that has claimed tens of thousands of lives in Gaza. A proposed agreement reportedly includes the exchange of captives in Gaza for Palestinian prisoners held by Israel. However, Netanyahu faces internal opposition from members of his far-right governing coalition, who argue that the deal could jeopardise Israel’s national security. Amidst these tensions, Biden reiterated the urgency of finalising the agreement, declaring, “The time for an agreement is now.”

Despite the ongoing negotiations, Israeli airstrikes and artillery barrages have intensified across Gaza. Local reports indicate that dozens of Palestinians were killed in the past day, with attacks heavily concentrated in Gaza City, where prolonged siege conditions have caused immense suffering. Critical infrastructure, including hospitals, has been destroyed, and thousands remain displaced. Journalists described drone attacks targeting densely populated areas where displaced individuals have sought refuge. Israeli military losses have also risen, with five soldiers reported killed and eight others wounded in recent fighting. Amidst these escalating hostilities, former Israeli Justice Minister Yossi Beilin called for an overdue ceasefire, asserting that resolving issues surrounding the release of captives and prisoners is key to achieving an agreement. The humanitarian crisis in Gaza remains dire, with limited aid reaching the besieged population, half of whom are children.