Biden and Netanyahu's Crucial Meeting Amidst Gaza Conflict

U.S. President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu may meet next week, contingent on Biden's COVID-19 recovery. Netanyahu will address Congress during his visit. Their relationship has been strained due to the Gaza conflict, and Biden's administration is trying to mediate for peace.

Efforts are underway for a crucial meeting next week between U.S. President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, contingent upon Biden's recovery from COVID-19, according to a White House statement on Thursday. The meeting is tentatively scheduled for Monday while Netanyahu will be in Washington for a July 24 address to Congress.

Biden, who tested positive for COVID-19 on Wednesday, is recuperating at his Delaware beach house and plans to return to the capital on Sunday. Relations between the two leaders have been strained for months over Netanyahu's handling of the Gaza conflict, which has resulted in over 38,000 deaths due to Israel's actions against Hamas militants after the Oct. 7 attack.

White House national security spokesperson John Kirby confirmed the likely meeting but emphasized that Biden's health would take precedence. The United States is also engaging in diplomatic efforts with Qatar and Egypt to broker a ceasefire and increase humanitarian aid to Gaza. Biden's administration, despite recent disagreements over arms supplies to Israel, may see Netanyahu's visit as an opportunity to ease tensions.

(With inputs from agencies.)