Several officials briefed on the negotiations indicated Monday that negotiators made major strides over the weekend in their efforts to mediate a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.
Because of the delicate nature of the talks, the White House has been pressuring both parties to come to an agreement by the end of the week, according to an official who spoke on condition of anonymity.
The insider told NBC News, “We are not there yet, but there is potential for real progress.”
These remarks were made as the Biden administration’s optimism over the recent developments in the months-long negotiations continued to grow.
Before President-elect Donald Trump takes office on Monday, January 20, Washington hopes to reach a ceasefire agreement that will put an end to over 15 months of deadly conflict in Gaza and secure the release of hostages who have been held there for the same amount of time.
The incoming President has threatened to declare “all hell will break out in the Middle East” if the remaining hostages, who were captured in the Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas-led strikes, are not freed prior to his inauguration.