President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. spoke today with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel to welcome the deal for the release of at least 50 hostages held by Hamas.  The two leaders discussed the pause in the fighting, which will allow for surging in much needed humanitarian assistance into Gaza.  The Prime Minister thanked the President for his tireless efforts, and those of his team,  to help broker this deal.  The two leaders agreed that the work is not yet done and the President assured the Prime Minister that he will continue working to secure the release of all remaining hostages.  The President further emphasized the importance of maintaining calm along the Lebanese border as well as in the West Bank.  The two leaders agreed to remain in close contact directly and through their teams over the coming days. 

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