Live Update 
From the Liveblog of
Saturday, August 17, 2024
From the Liveblog of
Saturday, August 17, 2024
Biden says he’s optimistic that deal can be sealed but cautions ‘it’s far from over’
US President Joe Biden speaks to reporters after arriving at Hagerstown, Maryland, for a brief stop en route to Camp David, August 16, 2024. (AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta)
US President Joe Biden says he’s optimistic about the prospects for a hostage-ceasefire deal that he claims is now in sight, but he warns it’s “far from over.”
“As of an hour ago, it’s still in play. I’m optimistic. It’s far from over,” he said on Friday night. “There’s a couple more issues. I think we’ve got a shot,” he tells reporters, without elaborating.
Asked when a ceasefire deal would start if an agreement is reached, Biden says: “That remains to be seen.”
