Biden announces ceasefire deal between Hamas and Israel
In a farewell address
In his final address from the Oval Office on January 14, 2025, President Joe Biden announced the successful brokered ceasefire and hostage exchange deal between Israel and Hamas, ending over 15 months of brutal conflict.
The agreement, which had been the subject of intense negotiation for months, is seen by US Defence Department officials as a significant step toward long-term peace in the Middle East region.
The fighting, which began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas launched a surprise attack on Israeli military personnel and civilians, escalated into one of the most severe conflicts the region had seen in decades.
Despite steadfast support for Israel’s right to defend itself, the US had long pushed for a diplomatic resolution. Last September, Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder reiterated the US’s firm stance: Hamas must face consequences for its deadly attacks on civilians, but a ceasefire and the release of hostages remained paramount.
For years, the US military has stood by Israel, enhancing its defences against missile and air threats, a commitment reinforced by the 2022 National Defence Strategy. Biden’s administration worked alongside key regional partners, including Qatar and Egypt, to mediate the ceasefire. In close coordination with the State Department and intelligence agencies, the US helped facilitate dialogue to de-escalate tensions and safeguard innocent lives.
Biden’s announcement underscored the unique collaboration between his administration and President-elect Donald Trump’s team, who played critical roles in finalising the deal after the November election.
Negotiators from outgoing and incoming teams worked tirelessly with Israeli and regional leaders to ensure a ceasefire agreement before Biden’s departure, setting a symbolic deadline that accelerated talks.
The details of the ceasefire remain partially confidential, but defence officials confirmed that Hamas is required to halt all rocket attacks and release identified hostages within six weeks. In return, Israel has agreed to cease military operations within Gaza’s borders, with both sides committing to keeping communication lines open to ensure further trust-building measures.
Outgoing Secretary of Defence Lloyd J. Austin praised the ceasefire, expressed condolences to the families of Americans killed during the conflict, and optimistically commented on the possibility of lasting peace in the region. “Israelis and Palestinians need not be doomed to eternal conflict,” Austin said, “and with leadership and wisdom, we can make progress toward the day when Israelis and Palestinians live side by side in peace and security in two sovereign states, with mutual security and dignity.”
Image: President Joe Biden delivers remarks on ending the war in Afghanistan on August 31, 2021, in front of the Cross Hall of the White House. Credit: Adam Schultz, White House
