Biden Urges Israel-Hamas Ceasefire Talks, Calls for Urgent Discussions in Cairo or Doha

US President Joe Biden, joined by leaders of Egypt and Qatar, urged Israel and Hamas to resume ceasefire talks on August 15. A joint statement emphasized the need to finalize and implement the agreement without further delays, addressing lingering implementation issues.

US President Joe Biden, along with leaders of Egypt and Qatar, has called on Israel and Hamas to resume ceasefire talks on August 15 in either Doha or Cairo. In a joint statement dated August 8, 2024, the leaders urged both sides to engage in discussions to resolve remaining issues and implement the deal without delay.

The statement, released by the White House, highlights the principles outlined by Biden on May 31, 2024, and endorsed by UN Security Council Resolution 2735. The mediating countries are prepared to present a 'final bridging proposal' to address the ceasefire in Gaza and the liberation of Israeli hostages. The leaders emphasized that the agreement framework is nearly complete, with only implementation details remaining.

'There is no time left for further delays. It is time to release the hostages, begin the ceasefire, and implement this agreement,' the leaders stated. In response, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office confirmed the dispatch of a delegation for the August 15 negotiations, although the location is yet to be finalized.

Meanwhile, Israeli forces bombed two schools in northern Gaza, resulting in the deaths of at least 15 Palestinians, according to Al Jazeera reports on Friday.

(With inputs from agencies.)