US President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met at the White House on Thursday, July 25, to discuss a potential ceasefire in the ongoing Gaza conflict.
As per Reuters, this marked their first in-person meeting since Biden's visit to Israel following the October 7 Hamas attack.
The talks come as US politics sees a significant change, with Biden stepping aside from the presidential race and endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris for the 2024 Democratic nomination.
Biden expressed gratitude for Netanyahu's support, while Netanyahu praised Biden's long service to the US and support for Israel.
Vice President Harris is scheduled to meet Netanyahu later in the day, a session that will be closely observed for any indications of potential shifts in US policy toward Israel if Harris becomes president.
Harris, who was the first top US official to call for a ceasefire, is expected to address both Palestinian humanitarian concerns and Israel's right to self-defence.
The Biden-Netanyahu meeting also included discussions with the families of American hostages held by Hamas.
However, the US continues to support Israel militarily and diplomatically, despite strained relations over Israel's actions in Gaza, which have resulted in significant casualties and a humanitarian crisis.
As security measures around the White House increase to manage protests, both Biden and Harris remain committed to seeking a ceasefire, with Harris taking a somewhat tougher stance on the conflict.
