Biden speaks with Egyptian president about Israel-Hamas hostage deal

U.S. President Joe Biden pauses during a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to discuss the war between Israel and Hamas, in Tel Aviv, Israel last month. (Miriam Alster/Pool Photo via AP, File)

President Biden spoke with Egyptian leader Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi on Wednesday to discuss a deal to secure the release of hostages taken by Hamas during its brutal assault against Israel and the latest developments in the region.

The pair discussed the coordination of humanitarian assistance to Palestinians in Gaza and the release of hostages, the White House said.

"The President reiterated that under no circumstances will the United States permit the forced relocation of Palestinians from Gaza or the West Bank, or the besiegement of Gaza, or the redrawing of the borders of Gaza," the White House said. "He also affirmed that under no circumstances can Gaza remain a sanctuary for Hamas where they can threaten Israel and Palestinians alike and  imperil any pathway to a durable peace."

Biden also stated his commitment to the establishment of a Palestinian state and recognized Egypt’s role in setting the conditions for that outcome, the administration said. .

Israel and Hamas have agreed to a temporary ceasefire for humanitarian purposes, including the release of hostages.

At least 50 hostages – women and children – will be released over 4 days, the office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said.

On Wednesday, Biden called the deal a “testament to the tireless diplomacy and determination of many dedicated individuals across the United States government to bring Americans home.”

The ceasefire goes into effect 10 a.m. Thursday local time.

Part of the deal includes Hamas allowing representatives from the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) to visit the Israeli hostages, Netanyahu said