US President Joe Biden engaged in discussions with Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani concerning Gaza, emphasizing the pivotal role of securing the release of hostages held by Hamas in achieving a lasting pause in the conflict, according to the White House. Both leaders underscored the importance of a hostage deal in establishing an extended humanitarian break in the fighting, ensuring crucial humanitarian aid reaches civilians in Gaza.
They expressed their commitment to continued involvement until all hostages are reunited with their families, reaffirming a shared vision for a peaceful, secure, and integrated Middle East. This follows recent talks in Doha where Biden’s Middle East adviser Brett McGurk explored the potential for a new hostage deal between Israel and Hamas. White House spokesperson John Kirby stated earlier this week that the US supports an extended humanitarian pause to facilitate hostage release and aid delivery. President Biden also had a conversation with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sissi.
