U.S. President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held a call to discuss progress in negotiations for a hostage release and truce deal mediated in Qatar.

Axar.az, citing Times of Israel, reports that Biden emphasized the urgency of achieving a resolution, while Netanyahu acknowledged U.S. support and expressed gratitude.

Senior Israeli negotiators were sent to Doha as talks intensified, signaling possible breakthroughs. However, Hamas demands assurances about the linkage between the deal's phased implementation, with disputes over specifics like prisoner releases and Israeli troop positioning. The initial stage reportedly involves releasing 25 Israeli hostages in exchange for 248 Palestinian prisoners, but the plan remains contentious.

Both Israeli and Hamas negotiators hinted at flexibility and optimism, yet disagreements linger. Meanwhile, far-right members of Netanyahu's coalition expressed concerns about the deal's potential consequences. Despite internal dissent, Netanyahu is working to ensure coalition stability while managing U.S. expectations ahead of Donald Trump’s upcoming presidency.

The next days are critical for finalizing the deal, with both optimism and pressure shaping its trajectory.