Biden, Egypt, Qatar Ready to Present Cease-Fire Proposal for Gaza President Biden, along with the leaders of Egypt and Qatar, has announced their readiness to present a "final" cease-fire proposal to end the conflict in Gaza. They have called on Israel and Hamas to return to negotiations next week. The joint statement emphasized the urgency to conclude the deal for a cease-fire and the release of hostages and detainees. Cease-fire talks were on hold after a meeting last weekend produced no breakthrough, further complicated by the assassination of Ismail Haniyeh, the political leader of Hamas. While Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel indicated agreement to the meeting, it is uncertain how willing he is to reach a deal. The situation is also complicated by uncertainty around Hamas' readiness to negotiate, particularly after the assassination of Mr. Haniyeh. The U.S.-led push to renew talks comes at a time of high tension in the region, with both Hezbollah and Iran vowing to retaliate against Israel. The United States has ordered more warships and aircraft to the region to help defend Israel. U.S. officials have expressed tentative optimism that any action taken by either side may yet be relatively measured, allowing for a return to the bargaining table next week.