Biden Welcomes Jordan’s King Abdullah II to White House
President Joe Biden speaks with King Abdullah II ibn Al Hussein of Jordan and Crown Prince Al Hussein bin Abdullah II in the Center Hall of the White House, Monday, February 12, 2024, after a private meeting and delivering of statements to the press (Official White House Photo by Adam Schultz).
President Joe Biden welcomed Jordan’s King Abdullah II to the White House Monday for a discussion on how to end the months-long war in Gazan and plan for what comes afterward.
Article by Victoria Newsome, Junior White House Correspondent
WASHINGTON - President Joe Biden's recent meeting with Jordan's King Abdullah II at the White House underscored the gravity of the ongoing crisis in Gaza and efforts to secure the release of hostages amid the Israel-Hamas conflict.
The meeting, held on Monday, Feb. 12th, delved into discussions on a potential ceasefire and the need for humanitarian aid, alongside addressing the pressing issue of hostages held by Hamas. Biden mentioned that key elements of the deal are on the table and according to AP News, “there are gaps that remain.” He said the U.S. would do “everything possible” to agree to happen: a pause to fighting for at least six weeks and the release of the remaining hostages held by Hamas.
"The anguish that their families are enduring, week after week, month after month is unimaginable. And it’s a top priority for the United States to bring them home," President Biden emphasized, highlighting the urgency of the situation.
The discussion was surrounding efforts to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas. President Biden disclosed that he had been in talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, as well as leaders in Egypt and Qatar, to advance negotiations on this front.
"We don’t know how many are still alive... It’s pretty much there," Biden remarked, indicating progress in the negotiations.
During the meeting, both leaders stressed the importance of achieving a lasting peace based on a two-state solution.
"We must — together, along with Arab partners and the international community — step up efforts to reach a cease-fire in Gaza and immediately start working to create a political horizon that leads to a just and comprehensive peace based on a two-state solution," King Abdullah II emphasized via NBC News.
The meeting between President Biden and King Abdullah II comes against the backdrop of escalating tensions in the region, compounded by recent incidents, including a drone strike in Jordan that resulted in the deaths of three American soldiers.
"Every innocent life lost in Gaza is a tragedy," President Biden remarked, acknowledging the human cost of the conflict.
Despite facing criticism over its support for Israel, the Biden administration remains steadfast in its commitment to facilitating a resolution to the conflict.
"I made clear the United States shares the goal of seeing Hamas defeated and ensuring long-term security for Israel and its people," Biden added, reiterating the stance of the United States.
As negotiations continue and efforts to secure a ceasefire intensify, the Biden administration is ready to play a pivotal role in shaping the future trajectory of the Israel-Hamas conflict. With the humanitarian crisis in Gaza deepening and the plight of hostages weighing heavily on the international community, the stakes have never been higher for achieving a sustainable and just resolution to the longstanding conflict.