Efforts Continue for Ceasefire in Gaza; Biden Says Agreement Depends on Hamas

U.S. President Joe Biden said on Tuesday that the possibility of a ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas depends on Hamas. Biden stated that Israel is cooperating to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza, and the matter is now in Hamas's hands. According to a report published on the CSPAN website, the U.S. President made this remark in response to a reporter's question about how far away a ceasefire agreement is. Biden spoke these words before boarding Air Force One in Maryland. He mentioned that it will be clear in a few days whether Hamas agrees to the reasonable proposal that Israel has accepted. Biden emphasized the need for a ceasefire in Gaza, noting that the continuation of hostilities could be 'very dangerous' given the ongoing Ramadan. Earlier, Reuters reported that Amos Hochstein, the U.S. special envoy, warned in Beirut on Monday, March 5, about the risk of escalating conflicts in the region, stating that a ceasefire in Gaza would not necessarily end hostilities at the southern border of Lebanon. Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant also stated on Tuesday, March 6, that ongoing border tensions with Hezbollah in Lebanon increase the likelihood of militarization of the situation. The Israeli Defense Minister remarked that Hezbollah's aggression has brought the 'critical moment' closer. He also mentioned that the Islamic Republic and Hamas intend to execute 'the second part of the October 7 attack' during Ramadan, and that Hezbollah will retreat from the border either through agreement or by force. Israeli newspapers reported that Hamas has retreated from some of its demands.