President Joe Biden engaged in a 30-minute phone call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday to discuss the progress of a potential hostage and ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas. Vice President Kamala Harris also joined the call, highlighting the significance of the situation. The call coincides with ongoing negotiations between Israel and Hamas, which are said to be on the verge of reaching a framework agreement.

According to a senior administration official, the conversation primarily focused on the details of the hostage and ceasefire deal. It was emphasized that Biden will have the opportunity to discuss the agreement with other global leaders next week during the NATO summit in Washington.

Both Israel and Hamas have taken steps towards reaching an agreement. Hamas recently responded to the proposed framework provided by Qatari and Egyptian mediators, a move that Israeli officials believe will pave the way for detailed negotiations towards an agreement. However, it is important to note that the deal has not been finalized and its success is not guaranteed.

The administration official expressed optimism about the potential agreement, stating that there seems to be a "pretty significant opening" for all involved parties to reach an agreement. Addressing concerns that Netanyahu may try to sabotage the deal for political gain, the official assured that the agreement is designed in a way that fully protects Israel's interests.

Hostage talks are expected to commence in Doha as early as Friday and continue over the next few days, according to the official. The White House provided a readout of the call, indicating that Biden and Netanyahu discussed efforts to finalize a ceasefire deal and the release of hostages. The president expressed appreciation for Netanyahu's decision to authorize negotiators to engage with US, Qatari, and Egyptian mediators in order to advance the deal.

The White House also announced a meeting between the national security teams of both leaders on July 15. This meeting further demonstrates the commitment to resolving the Israeli-Hamas conflict and ensuring Israel's security.

The United States has proposed new language aimed at bridging gaps in the negotiations. The proposed language emphasizes a first phase period where both Israel and Hamas would engage in further negotiations, with the ultimate goal of progressing to the second phase of the deal. A US official described the response to the proposal as constructive, but acknowledged that there is still more work to be done.

In regard to upcoming engagements, it was mentioned that Netanyahu is expected to visit Washington in a few weeks to address Congress. The logistical details for a meeting between President Biden and Netanyahu are currently being finalized, with the White House likely being the venue. Unless unforeseen circumstances arise, the two leaders are expected to meet and discuss the ongoing conflict.

The phone call between President Biden and Prime Minister Netanyahu comes at a crucial time, as the President faces challenges domestically and seeks to address concerns within the Democratic Party, particularly among younger voters, regarding his handling of the Israeli-Hamas conflict.

Please note that this article has been updated with additional developments.