The Biden administration is intensifying its efforts to secure a ceasefire in Gaza, working closely with Donald Trump’s incoming team. The goal is to establish a ceasefire and negotiate a hostage deal to end the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas before Trump takes office on January 20, according to people familiar with the discussions.
Following the recent ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon, talks have quietly resumed, with hopes of achieving a similar outcome in Gaza. The Biden administration, despite a year of unsuccessful attempts, is under pressure to resolve the conflict in its remaining weeks. Trump’s eagerness to start his second term with the conflict resolved has rejuvenated a previously stalled framework.
Sources indicate that there is close coordination between the two administrations, with Trump’s team being updated on the progress by key figures such as CIA Director Bill Burns and Brett McGurk from Biden’s camp, alongside Trump’s Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff. During a recent visit to Israel and Qatar, Witkoff discussed potential ceasefire deals with regional leaders.
The urgency of the matter was underscored by President-elect Trump’s statement on social media, warning of severe consequences in the Middle East if hostages are not released by his inauguration. CIA Director Bill Burns and the White House’s Brett McGurk are primarily leading the initiative, with Steve Witkoff representing Trump’s interests. Witkoff’s meetings with Israeli and Qatari officials underline the gravity of the situation.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken also highlighted the determination of U.S. efforts in this regard, emphasizing bipartisan support for resolving the hostage crisis and implementing a ceasefire.
Despite differences on certain issues, current officials from Biden’s administration have acknowledged and welcomed Trump’s support in these efforts, viewing it as essential for a smooth transition and effective resolution. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan is actively involved in ensuring coordination between the outgoing and incoming teams.
Meanwhile, discussions continue on a framework previously brokered by the U.S., Qatar, and Egypt. This framework involves a phased release of hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. However, significant hurdles remain, including Hamas’s insistence on guarantees from Israel to halt the war, which Israel has thus far refused.
There is cautious optimism from Israeli officials who note increased flexibility from Hamas and pressure from Qatar on the militant group, aiming to position favorably with the incoming U.S. administration.
The situation remains tense, with indirect negotiations underway and visits by high-level officials from both administrations, underscoring the urgency and complexity of the ongoing efforts.
As Trump prepares to take office, the combined efforts of the current and incoming U.S. administrations highlight the critical nature of achieving a ceasefire in Gaza. The path ahead remains fraught with challenges, yet the commitment demonstrated by all parties involved reflects hope for a peaceful resolution.
