Mon Sep 23 20:07:12 UTC 2024: ## Biden Races to Secure Israel-Hamas Ceasefire Before Term Ends

**NEW YORK** – With his term in office rapidly approaching its end, President Joe Biden is reportedly putting immense pressure on his national security team to secure an Israel-Hamas ceasefire, according to sources cited by Politico.

The war, which began nearly a year ago, has plunged the Middle East into a wider regional conflict. Biden, who often touted his foreign policy experience during his career, is facing mounting pressure to deliver a ceasefire before he leaves office in January.

“Keep fucking trying,” Biden reportedly told his national security officials during a recent Situation Room meeting, according to one participant who spoke to Politico.

A ceasefire deal could also provide a political boost for Biden, as he believes it would improve Vice President Kamala Harris’s chances of winning the presidency in the November election.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken, CIA Director Bill Burns, and White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan have all been tasked with making a ceasefire their top priority.

Despite ongoing talks, an agreement seems unlikely in the near future, according to sources. The situation is complex and contentious, with various parties involved, including Egypt and Qatar, all pushing for their own interests. Some in Biden’s circle doubt a ceasefire can be reached before his departure.

Obstacles to a deal include Israel’s demand to keep troops at the Egyptian-Gazan border to prevent Hamas from smuggling weapons, while Hamas insists on Israel’s complete withdrawal from Gaza.

A hostage-prisoner swap is another sticking point, with neither side agreeing on the numbers involved or the timing of such an exchange.

Senator Chris Coons (D-DE) acknowledged the difficulty, stating, “No one has worked harder for a hostage and ceasefire deal than Joe Biden and his senior aides…But I’m not optimistic we’re going to see a deal anytime soon.”

Despite the bleak outlook, Biden is expected to make a push for a ceasefire in his final address to the United Nations General Assembly on Tuesday. He will also address other global challenges, including the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.

The White House has not yet responded to requests for comment.

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