- The Washington Times - Tuesday, November 21, 2023

President Biden on Tuesday said the U.S. and global partners are “very close” to a deal that would release hostages held in Gaza by Hamas terrorists.

Mr. Biden said he spoke to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Qatar’s emir about people held by the militants since the Oct. 7 attack on Israel.

“We’re now very close, very close. We could bring some of these hostages home very soon,” Mr. Biden said at the White House. “But I don’t want to get into the details because nothing is done until it’s done. When we have more to say, we will, but things are looking good at the moment.”

U.S. and Israel and working to free over 200 people from Gaza.

As Israel pounds Gaza in retribution for the raids, the negotiations center on a multiday pause in fighting to allow for the release of hostages.

• Tom Howell Jr. can be reached at thowell@washingtontimes.com.

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