Metro Manila, Philippines— United States President Joe Biden hosted Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House on Thursday to discuss developments in war-torn Gaza.

In a statement, the White House said the two leaders tackled the ongoing negotiations on the ceasefire and hostage release in detail.

“President Biden expressed the need to close the remaining gaps, finalize the deal as soon as possible, bring the hostages home, and reach a durable end to the war in Gaza,” the White House said.

Biden also noted the need to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

Biden told Netanyahu to remove any obstacles to the flow of aid and “restore basic services for those in need, and the critical importance of protecting civilian lives during military operations.”

Washington said it remains committed to Israel’s security against all threats from Iran and its proxies, including Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis.