Netanyahu meets with Biden and Harris in Washington

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu separately met with US President Joe Biden and likely Democratic nominee Vice President Kamala Harris at the White House to discuss the Gaza conflict and the possibility of securing a ceasefire agreement, AP said, Report informs via CGTN.

Netanyahu's first White House visit since 2020 came a day after he gave a fiery speech to Congress amid increasing pressure in Israel and recent protests in Washington by thousands condemning the Gaza conflict and his visit.

Harris said in remarks after what she called a "frank and constructive meeting" with the Israeli leader that she supports Israel's right to defend itself, but said, "how it does so matters."

She expressed concern over the "devastating" humanitarian situation in Gaza and images of civilians killed in the conflict, saying, "We cannot look away in the face of these tragedies."

The vice president supported Biden's call for a swift ceasefire to end the fighting, at least for a time, to boost humanitarian aid to Gaza and release some of the most vulnerable hostages from Hamas captivity.

White House officials report that the negotiations are nearing completion, though some issues still need to be addressed, according to the Associated Press.

The AP report noted that a US-backed plan to release the remaining hostages in Gaza in three phases would serve as a significant legacy for Biden, who has withdrawn from the reelection race and endorsed Harris. This plan could also benefit Harris in her effort to succeed him.

Following their talks, Biden and Netanyahu met with the families of American hostages.