"King Abdullah meets with Biden to advance Gaza ceasefire efforts"

President Biden is meeting with Jordan’s King Abdullah II to discuss efforts to free hostages in Gaza and concerns over a potential Israeli military operation in Rafah, as a framework for a deal to halt fighting and release hostages is being finalized. The U.S. is pressuring Israel to strengthen humanitarian aid and avoid military operations in Rafah, while facing criticism for its support of Israel amid growing casualties in Gaza. Arab states are demanding a cease-fire, and Biden's administration has been engaged in shuttle diplomacy to broker a pause in the conflict.