Biden, Netanyahu Pursue Contradictory Objectives in Gaza Ceasefire Negotiations

US President Joe Biden expressed optimism about a ceasefire in Gaza by March 4, but Israeli and Hamas officials downplayed the likelihood. Hamas's Basem Naim stated no new proposal had been received since Paris talks. Israeli officials expressed surprise and cited Hamas's 'excessive demands.' Tensions between Biden and Netanyahu are noted, with Biden calling for Congress to fund Israel's defense. Hamas also advocates cutting US funds to UNRWA. The conflict has killed 29,878 Palestinians and displaced over 85% of the population. A proposed 40-day pause includes hostage exchanges at a 10:1 ratio, but talks face challenges over detainee identities and female soldiers.

US President Joe Biden expressed optimism about a ceasefire in Gaza by March 4, but Israeli and Hamas officials downplayed the likelihood. Hamas's Basem Naim stated no new proposal had been received since Paris talks. Israeli officials expressed surprise and cited Hamas's 'excessive demands.' Tensions between Biden and Netanyahu are noted, with Biden calling for Congress to fund Israel's defense. Hamas also advocates cutting US funds to UNRWA. The conflict has killed 29,878 Palestinians and displaced over 85% of the population. A proposed 40-day pause includes hostage exchanges at a 10:1 ratio, but talks face challenges over detainee identities and female soldiers.

US President Joe Biden expressed optimism about a ceasefire in Gaza by March 4, but Israeli and Hamas officials downplayed the likelihood. Hamas's Basem Naim stated no new proposal had been received since Paris talks. Israeli officials expressed surprise and cited Hamas's 'excessive demands.' Tensions between Biden and Netanyahu are noted, with Biden calling for Congress to fund Israel's defense. Hamas also advocates cutting US funds to UNRWA. The conflict has killed 29,878 Palestinians and displaced over 85% of the population. A proposed 40-day pause includes hostage exchanges at a 10:1 ratio, but talks face challenges over detainee identities and female soldiers.

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