• Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu and US President Joe Biden discuss progress in Gaza ceasefire and hostage negotiations.
• Biden reiterates calls for an immediate ceasefire and the return of hostages, emphasizing increased humanitarian assistance.
• Netanyahu faces pressure from hardline cabinet members opposing a ceasefire.
• Significant regional developments also discussed, including Lebanon's ceasefire and Iran's diminished influence.
• Negotiators express cautious optimism as talks in Doha continue.

In a recent conversation, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu discussed the ongoing talks regarding a Gaza ceasefire and the release of hostages with US President Joe Biden. Netanyahu's office reported that they reviewed the progress made in negotiations and the mandate given to the negotiating team in Doha aimed at advancing the hostage release process ([CNN](https://edition.cnn.com/2025/01/12/middleeast/netanyahu-biden-ceasefire-hostages-talks-intl-latam/index.html)). In appreciation, Netanyahu expressed thanks to both Biden and the incoming President Donald Trump for their collaborative efforts on this significant issue.

President Biden reiterated his demands for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, a return of the hostages, and an increase in humanitarian aid to the region. During their discussion, he highlighted crucial shifts in regional dynamics in light of recent events, including the ceasefire in Lebanon and the weakened state of the Iranian regime, which are impacting negotiations ([India Times](https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/israel-hamas-war-joe-biden-netanyahu-discuss-progress-in-gaza-ceasefire-deal/articleshow/117184989.cms)).

This publicized call marks the first communication between the two leaders since October 2024, and came as Netanyahu convened meetings with Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, both of whom have historically resisted Biden's ceasefire proposals. These ministers have threatened to resign if Netanyahu moves forward with an agreement that favors a ceasefire over continued military action against Hamas.

As negotiations progress in Doha, Israeli officials have voiced a sense of cautious optimism regarding the talks. Spokesperson Omer Dostri stressed that the Israeli government is exerting every effort to finalize an agreement, although he acknowledged that advancements are occurring at a slow pace.