Middle East

Cease-fire deal in Gaza will most likely elude Biden

Image Credits: UnsplashImage Credits: Unsplash
  • The Biden administration faces significant challenges in brokering a Gaza ceasefire deal before the end of the president's term.
  • Key obstacles include disagreements over hostage releases, escalating tensions with Hezbollah, and Hamas's negotiation tactics.
  • Regional powers and the international community continue to play crucial roles in mediation efforts, but a resolution remains elusive.

[MIDDLE EAST] The Biden administration's efforts to broker a cease-fire deal between Israel and Hamas in Gaza have hit significant roadblocks, casting doubt on the possibility of reaching an agreement before the end of President Joe Biden's term1. Despite months of intensive diplomacy and negotiations, senior U.S. officials are privately expressing pessimism about the prospects of ending the conflict in the near future.

Key Obstacles to a Cease-Fire Agreement

Hostage Release and Prisoner Exchange

One of the major sticking points in the negotiations is the number of Palestinian prisoners Israel must release in exchange for the hostages held by Hamas. This issue has become even more contentious following the recent deaths of six hostages, including an American citizen.

Escalating Tensions with Hezbollah

The recent two-day attack on Hezbollah involving explosive pagers and walkie-talkies, followed by Israeli airstrikes, has significantly increased the risk of a full-scale war in Lebanon. This escalation has further complicated diplomatic efforts with Hamas and added another layer of complexity to the already challenging peace process.

Hamas's Negotiation Tactics

U.S. officials have expressed frustration with Hamas's approach to negotiations. According to Biden administration officials, Hamas often makes demands and then refuses to accept them even after the U.S. and Israel agree to meet those demands. This pattern of behavior has made it difficult to make substantial progress in the talks.

The Three-Phase Ceasefire Proposal

Despite the challenges, efforts to reach a ceasefire agreement have not ceased entirely. A three-phase proposal has been drafted by mediators from Egypt and Qatar, which includes the following stages:

Initial Ceasefire: A six-week ceasefire, release of Israeli hostages in exchange for Palestinian detainees, and increased humanitarian aid to Gaza.

Permanent Ceasefire: Israel would accept a permanent ceasefire, and Hamas would release remaining male hostages, both civilians and soldiers.

Final Stage: Release of remains of deceased Israeli hostages and potential lifting of the blockade on the Gaza Strip.

Biden Administration's Continued Efforts

Despite the growing pessimism, the Biden administration remains committed to pursuing a deal. President Biden has announced that the United States will intensify its efforts in collaboration with regional allies to establish a ceasefire in Gaza. This renewed push aims to involve the release of hostages and the removal of Hamas from power.

National Security Council spokesman John Kirby emphasized the administration's ongoing commitment, stating, "We are still putting our shoulder to the wheel to get the hostages home and get a cease-fire in place, as daunting as that is today".

Regional Implications and Broader Conflict

The ongoing conflict in Gaza has broader implications for the region. Tensions between Israel and Hezbollah have escalated significantly, with recent explosions affecting wireless devices across Lebanon resulting in numerous casualties. This escalation threatens to open a second front in the conflict, further complicating peace efforts.

Humanitarian Crisis and International Pressure

The prolonged conflict has resulted in a severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza. According to the Hamas-controlled health ministry, over 44,000 people have died and more than 104,000 have been injured since the conflict began. This staggering toll has increased international pressure for a resolution to the conflict.

Challenges for Biden's Foreign Policy

The inability to secure a ceasefire deal in Gaza represents a significant challenge for President Biden's foreign policy agenda. As his term nears its end, the administration faces mounting pressure to demonstrate progress in resolving the conflict1. The situation is further complicated by the upcoming U.S. presidential election, which may limit Biden's ability to exert pressure on Israel.

The Role of Regional Powers

The involvement of regional powers such as Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey remains crucial in the negotiation process. These countries have played key roles as mediators and continue to be involved in efforts to bring about a resolution. Their influence and relationships with both Israel and Hamas are seen as vital in bridging the gaps between the conflicting parties.

Israel's Stance and Internal Politics

Israel's position in the negotiations is influenced by its internal political dynamics. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces pressure from both hardliners within his government and the Israeli public, who demand a decisive victory over Hamas. This domestic pressure makes it challenging for Israel to make significant concessions in the peace talks.

Hamas's Position and Demands

Hamas continues to insist on a permanent ceasefire and the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. These demands are at odds with Israel's stated goal of eliminating Hamas's military capabilities and ensuring long-term security for Israeli citizens.

International Community's Role

The international community, including the United Nations and various countries, continues to call for an immediate ceasefire and increased humanitarian aid to Gaza. The UN Security Council has adopted resolutions backing ceasefire proposals, but implementation remains elusive.

Looking Ahead: Prospects for Peace

While the immediate prospects for a ceasefire deal appear dim, diplomatic efforts continue. The complexity of the situation, involving multiple stakeholders with divergent interests, makes finding a solution challenging. However, the ongoing humanitarian crisis and the risk of regional escalation provide strong incentives for all parties to continue seeking a resolution.

As the Gaza conflict enters its second year, the elusive nature of a ceasefire deal underscores the deep-rooted complexities of the Israel-Hamas conflict. While the Biden administration remains committed to pursuing a diplomatic solution, the path to peace remains fraught with obstacles. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether a breakthrough can be achieved or if the conflict will continue to simmer, with potentially dire consequences for the region and beyond.


Read More

Economy Middle East
Image Credits: Unsplash
EconomyJuly 18, 2025 at 7:30:00 PM

Trump Fed rate pressure exposes deep policy rift

Donald Trump has never shied away from criticizing the Federal Reserve. But in 2025, the stakes are different—and so is the context. In...

Marketing Middle East
Image Credits: Unsplash
MarketingJuly 18, 2025 at 7:30:00 PM

Why representation in marketing matters to your customers

We had just wrapped our biggest campaign of the year. The product was solid, the execution smooth, and the visuals—at least in our...

Loans Middle East
Image Credits: Unsplash
LoansJuly 18, 2025 at 7:00:00 PM

Can you include personal loans in bankruptcy?

Filing for bankruptcy is basically financial rock bottom, right? Not necessarily. If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Can personal loans be included in bankruptcy?”...

Health & Wellness Middle East
Image Credits: Unsplash
Health & WellnessJuly 18, 2025 at 7:00:00 PM

Why salmon and sardines deserve a spot on your plate

A tin of sardines. A fillet of salmon pulled from the freezer. A faint scent of brine in the air. These might not...

Credit Middle East
Image Credits: Unsplash
CreditJuly 18, 2025 at 7:00:00 PM

Should you get a credit card? Here's how to decide

Credit cards are often seen as a rite of passage into adulthood. But for many Singaporeans, the decision to get one is wrapped...

Business Middle East
Image Credits: Unsplash
BusinessJuly 18, 2025 at 6:00:00 PM

Why networking wins the job—not your résumé

In a world saturated with polished résumés, templated cover letters, and algorithm-filtered job boards, the most effective job seekers are no longer relying...

Mortgages Middle East
Image Credits: Unsplash
MortgagesJuly 18, 2025 at 4:30:00 PM

The secret behind all those all-cash offers in today’s housing market

The property market has always rewarded those who move quickly. But with mortgage rates high and inventory tight, buyers are increasingly expected to...

Culture Middle East
Image Credits: Unsplash
CultureJuly 18, 2025 at 4:30:00 PM

Why your company isn’t a family—and shouldn’t be

From the first team standup to the final investor pitch, many startups cling to a single line of cultural shorthand: “We’re like a...

Relationships Middle East
Image Credits: Unsplash
RelationshipsJuly 18, 2025 at 4:30:00 PM

Study finds introducing peanut to babies reduces allergy risk

There’s a moment many parents pause before handing over a spoon of peanut butter. Will it trigger something? Is this too soon? But...

Marketing Middle East
Image Credits: Unsplash
MarketingJuly 18, 2025 at 4:30:00 PM

How to boost customer referrals without gimmicks

Everyone wants referrals. The reality? Most startups build systems that quietly discourage them. They think delight leads to virality. They assume satisfaction drives...

Health & Wellness Middle East
Image Credits: Unsplash
Health & WellnessJuly 18, 2025 at 4:00:00 PM

Why toothpaste is almost always mint—and why that won’t change

No one gets excited about brushing their teeth. It’s not trending. It’s not romantic. It’s not even a habit you can flex on...

Financial Planning Middle East
Image Credits: Unsplash
Financial PlanningJuly 18, 2025 at 3:30:00 PM

One in three Singaporeans cuts spending on US products over Trump tariffs

Between July 1 and 8, 2025, over 1,500 Singaporeans and permanent residents were asked about their views on US goods and services. The...

Load More