In a significant development, President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke for the first time in nearly a month regarding the ongoing war in Gaza and the potential for a postwar Palestinian state. The conversation, which occurred on Friday, comes amidst Netanyahu's recent rejection of creating an independent Palestinian nation after the fighting concludes. However, the White House has insisted that the timing of the call was coincidental.

During the White House briefing, National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby emphasized that President Biden remains committed to the idea of a two-state solution. Kirby stated that the President recognizes the need for substantial efforts and leadership in the region to achieve this outcome, with the United States firmly standing behind it. The importance of an independent Palestinian state for long-term security was also highlighted, underscoring its significance for both the Palestinian and Israeli people.

This latest exchange between the American and Israeli leaders reflects a divergence in their views on the width of Israel's war and the future of Gaza. While the Biden administration has consistently advocated for a two-state solution, Netanyahu's rejection poses a challenge to Washington's efforts to manage this delicate foreign policy crisis.

Netanyahu's remarks, made during a news conference on Thursday, outlined Israel's need for security control over all territory west of Jordan following the war. This stance, according to him, clashes with the concept of sovereignty. The Israeli Prime Minister's statements have drawn condemnation, with calls for President Biden to abandon "quiet diplomacy" with Netanyahu. In fact, Democrats, led by Sen. Chris Van Hollen, are proposing an amendment to the president's multibillion national security supplemental, seeking to ensure that countries receiving U.S. military aid, including Israel, adhere to U.S. law and international humanitarian law.

During their conversation, Biden and Netanyahu also discussed ongoing efforts to secure the release of remaining hostages held by Hamas after its attack on Israel last month. Additionally, they explored strategies to enhance humanitarian assistance to Gaza while maintaining military pressure on Hamas and its leaders.

As the situation between Israel and Palestine remains tense, the discussions between President Biden and Prime Minister Netanyahu are crucial for determining the path forward. The fate of Gaza, the two-state solution, and the overall stability of the region hang in the balance, making decisive diplomatic action all the more urgent.