CNN —President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu discussed a deal to secure the release of hostages in Gaza at length on Sunday, according to a senior administration official, who cautioned that while a framework is in place, gaps remain. There are 136 hostages being held in Gaza, including 132 who were captured during Hamas’ October 7 attack. The call between Biden and Netanyahu lasted about 45 minutes, and two-thirds of the call was focused on the release of hostages, according to the senior Biden administration official. Biden and Netanyahu didn’t specifically address the president’s comment, the senior administration official said. Last week, Blinken told Netanyahu and other top Israeli officials that the civilian toll in Gaza “remains too high” as violence continues in the region.

Source: CNN February 12, 2024 00:15 UTC