US President Joe Biden, holding a mint ice cream cone in hand in a New York parlor, stated, “We’re close [to a ceasefire in Gaza]. It’s not done yet, and my hope is by next Monday [March 4], we’ll have a ceasefire."

Biden, while savoring his ice cream, turned around to answer a reporter’s question regarding the progress of the Paris talks held recently to advance the mediation efforts between “Israel” and Hamas.

Biden’s comments came after taping an interview with American comedian Seth Meyers on the “Late Night” show, where the two made a stop afterwards at Van Leeuwen Ice Cream parlor near the filming location.

Biden’s nonchalant comment was under scrutiny by many, as he appeared relaxed and casual while worldwide diplomatic and mediation efforts, global protests and demonstrations are all taking place to call for an end to the humanitarian catastrophe in the Gaza Strip.

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