Biden and Netanyahu Discuss Hostage Efforts and Gaza Operations in Tense Call

The first-time conversation in nearly a month between U.S President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu discussed efforts to secure hostages held by Hamas, and Israel's shift to more targeted operations in Gaza in an effort to allow more humanitarian assistance. This comes after conflicting statements made by Netanyahu regarding his opposition to Palestinian statehood and a two-state solution.

While Netanyahu emphasized the need for Israel to have security control over all the territory west of the Jordan River, Biden has maintained his support for a two-state solution as the primary way to ensure security and peace in the region. In response to questions about potential crimes committed against civilians in the conflict, the U.S. said it was still gathering information, but rejected reports of a rift between the two leaders.

The call comes amidst intense gunfire from Israeli drones targeting citizens at Al-Amal Hospital in Gaza, and the reported death toll from the conflict being almost 25,000 Palestinians, with 1,140 killed in Israel. Despite their differences on certain issues, the White House stressed the vision of a dual-state solution with Israel's security guaranteed, and expressed hope for a more durable peace and security that is fully integrated within the region.