Some American observers assumed that Netanyahu wanted to extend the war into Trump’s term, during which he would have the Republican president’s permission to behave however he liked. These were, after all, like-minded politicians. But that assessment misread the Netanyahu-Trump dynamic.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has spoken separately to US President-elect Donald Trump and President Joe Biden to thank them for their help securing a ceasefire in Gaza and a deal to release hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners,

In a statement, Netanyahu’s office said that final details were still unresolved, but that it hoped “details will be finalized tonight.”

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and U.S. President Joe Biden have spoken in a phone call on the latest efforts to reach a ceasefire and hostage release in the Israel-Hamas war.

Not long after news broke about a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas following a 15-month war in Gaza, Israel's prime minister said a deal has not been reached.

Israel and Hamas agreed to a ceasefire deal, mediators said Wednesday, suggesting a pause may be coming soon in the devastating 15-month war in the Gaza Strip and raising the possibility of winding down the deadliest and most destructive fighting between the bitter enemies.