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President Biden has expressed confidence that a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas can be reached before his term ends, despite recent challenges that have complicated the negotiations.

What the deal: In a CBS interview, President Biden was questioned about the likelihood of achieving a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas amid deepening divisions. He responded by saying, “Yes, it’s still possible. The plan I put together endorsed by the G7, endorsed by the UN Security Council, etc. It is still viable. And I’m working literally every single day to — and my whole team, to see to it that it doesn’t escalate into a regional war. But it easily can.”

More on Biden’s plan: President Biden’s proposal, backed by the G7, focuses on a temporary ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, with a key element being the exchange of the most vulnerable hostages held by Hamas for Palestinian prisoners. The plan also calls for Israeli forces to pull back from heavily populated areas in Gaza to minimize civilian casualties and help de-escalate the situation.

US, Egypt, & Qatar turning up the pressure for a ceasefire: Despite increasing tensions between Hamas and Israel over a potential ceasefire, the United States, Qatar, and Egypt, the primary mediators in the talks, have urged both sides to agree to a ceasefire immediately. In a joint statement, the three nations said, “There is no further time to waste nor excuses from any party for further delay. It is time to release the hostages, begin the ceasefire, and implement this agreement.”

How many hostages does Hamas have?: Hamas is believed to be holding approximately 115 hostages in Gaza, though some believe the figure may be less.