Welcome to our live coverage on the Israel-Gaza conflict and broader Middle East tensions. After a highly criticized address delivered at the US Congress, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu prepares for discussions with President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris in an attempt to negotiate a ceasefire deal amidst continuing hostilities in Gaza.
According to a senior US official cited by Reuters on Wednesday, talks aimed at establishing a ceasefire-for-hostages agreement are nearing completion. The next meeting is expected to address remaining concerns with the intent of solidifying a six-week truce in exchange for hostage releases within a 42-day period.
The official noted that negotiations have progressed significantly compared to earlier stages, implying potential success ahead: "It's a very different negotiation now than just a month ago when we had some fundamentally unbridgeable issues."
Meanwhile, demonstrations continue on Capitol Hill as citizens express disapproval towards Netanyahu. The protesters voiced their opposition to the prime minister amid his address at Congress and have chanted against what they perceive as aggression in Gaza.
In an attempt to garner support, Netanyahu urged for military aid from the US, stating that such assistance would enable Israel's forces more effectively: "Give us the tools and we’ll get the job done faster." However, he faced criticism on multiple fronts - both domestic and international.
Hamas' senior figure Sami Abu Zuhri accused Netanyahu of obstructing a ceasefire deal during his address at Congress: "Netanyahu's speech was full of lies and it will not succeed in covering up for the failure and defeat." Other critics, including US senators Bernie Sanders and Chris Murphy, have voiced their disapproval over Netanyahu's comments.
On a separate note, Australia imposed financial sanctions on seven individuals linked to violent attacks against Palestinians in the West Bank. The country deemed settlement activities as illegal under international law, further adding to tensions within the region.
In contrast, Israeli forces announced that five bodies were recovered from Hamas' previous attack and taken back into Israel. These included a kindergarten teacher who was killed during said incident, along with three military personnel - two reservists and one conscripted soldier, all of whom lost their lives in combat situations.
President Biden has expressed his intentions to continue efforts towards ending the conflict, securing hostages' return home, and seeking peace and security within the Middle East during his potential campaign for reelection. However, he faces scrutiny over alleged contributions to the ongoing war through military aid provided to Israel in a recent foreign aid package.
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