Wed Jan 15 22:10:00 UTC 2025: ## Netanyahu Thanks Biden and Trump for Role in Gaza Hostage Release
**Jerusalem, January 16, 2025** – Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed gratitude to both US President Joe Biden and President-elect Donald Trump for their assistance in securing the release of hostages held in Gaza, according to a statement released by his office. The statement, which marked the first official acknowledgement of a deal, revealed that Netanyahu spoke with both leaders Wednesday. He thanked President-elect Trump for his role in advancing the hostage release and confirmed plans for an upcoming meeting in Washington. The Prime Minister also extended his thanks to President Biden. A ceasefire between Israel and Hamas has been confirmed by the Qatari Prime Minister.
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