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Middle East conflict

Biden refrains from specifying timeframe for release of hostages in Gaza

"I want to make sure they’re out and then I’ll tell you," he said

WASHINGTON, November 20. /TASS/. US President Joe Biden refrained from specifying the timeframe for the liberation of hostages held by the Hamas movement.

He was asked this question by the reporters during his visit to Norfolk, Virginia.

"I’m not in a position to tell you that," Biden replied. "I want to make sure they’re out and then I’ll tell you."

On November 18, The Washington Post reported citing its sources that the US, Israel and the Hamas are close to reaching an agreement on a five-day ceasefire and liberation of hostages held in the Gaza Strip. In turn, US Deputy National Security Advisor of the United States Jonathan Finer said that, while there has been some progress in the negotiations, the agreement has not been achieved yet. Meanwhile, Axios reported citing its sources that the Hamas has resumed the negotiations on release of dozens of hostages, and the negotiations have made some progress.

The situation in the Middle East has escalated abruptly after an armed infiltration of HAMAS militants from the Gaza Strip into Israel. The HAMAS movement considers this attack a response to the actions of Israeli authorities towards the Al Aqsa Mosque at the Temple Mount in Jerusalem. Israel announced a complete blockade of the Gaza Strip and started carrying out strikes on the enclave and certain areas in Lebanon and Syria. Clashes are also taking place in the West Bank.

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Palestine Israel Joseph Biden Gaza Strip

Middle East conflict

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There are no casualties or damage

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