Biden Says Hamas–Israel Hostage and Ceasefire Negotiations ‘Not Done Yet,’ Hopes for Agreement by Week’s End

Biden said he was hoping for a ceasefire agreement that will see all hostages released by Monday.

President Joe Biden speaks with host Seth Meyers as they enjoy an ice cream at Van Leeuwen Ice Cream after taping an episode of "Late Night with Seth Meyers" in New York City on Feb. 26, 2024. Jim Watson/AFP

President Joe Biden said he hopes that negotiations for the release of hostages by Hamas in return for prisoners in Israel and a temporary humanitarian ceasefire can be achieved by the end of the weekend.

Noting that the U.S.-led negotiations haven’t come to a conclusion yet, President Biden said he was hoping for an agreement that will see all hostages still held by Hamas released by Monday, March 4.