U.S. President Joe Biden spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to discuss efforts to reach a deal to halt the fighting in Gaza and free the remaining hostages held there. Biden's national security adviser, Jake Sullivan, stated that the parties were close to reaching a deal but still needed to finalize it. There is a chance to reach an agreement before Biden leaves office, but Hamas' intransigence remains a challenge. Israel launched its assault in Gaza after Hamas fighters stormed across its borders in October 2023, resulting in a humanitarian crisis and displacement of the population. Vice President-elect JD Vance expects a deal for the release of U.S. hostages in the Middle East to be announced in the final days of the Biden administration.