President Joe Biden is expressing optimism that a cease-fire deal could be near that could bring Israel’s war against Hamas to an end.

Speaking to reporters on Friday, Biden said he was late to his event because he was “dealing with the cease-fire” negotiations.

“We are closer than we have ever been…we may have something but we’re not there yet, but much, much closer than it was three days ago,” he added.

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Reuters reported Friday, “Gaza ceasefire talks in Doha were paused on Friday with negotiators to meet again next week seeking an agreement to end fighting between Israel and Hamas and free remaining hostages.”

“In a joint statement, the United States, Qatar and Egypt said Washington had presented a new proposal that built on points of agreement over the past week, closing gaps between the sides in a way that could allow rapid implementation of a deal,” it added.

In a statement, the negotiators said, “The path is now set for that outcome, saving lives, bringing relief to the people of Gaza, and de-escalating regional tensions.”