Biden, Netanyahu Meet on Gaza Ceasefire Negotiations

President Joe Biden met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday amid increasing calls for a permanent ceasefire in the ongoing Gaza conflict, which has resulted in over 39,000 deaths. The Biden administration believes a ceasefire deal is nearing completion, with Biden emphasizing the urgency to finalize the agreement before the upcoming elections. Netanyahu faces pressure from both the public, who desire the return of hostages, and far-right coalition members who resist any compromise that might limit military actions against Hamas. This marks Netanyahu's first in-person meeting with Biden during his presidency, and he is also scheduled to meet with Vice President Kamala Harris later in the day. The White House has heightened security measures in response to potential protests coinciding with the meeting. Overall, Biden's efforts aim to bolster his administration's foreign policy achievements before the election.