Biden, Jordanian king discuss de-escalation, ceasefire, hostages

U.S. President Joe Biden and Abdullah II, the king of Jordan, spoke on Monday about “their efforts to de-escalate regional tensions, including through an immediate ceasefire and hostage release deal,” according to a White House readout.

Biden thanked the Jordanian king “for his friendship and affirmed unwavering U.S. support for Jordan as a partner and ally in promoting regional peace and security,” the White House said.

The president also congratulated the king, the crown prince and the princess on the latter’s new baby girl, Iman, who was born over the weekend, per the White House.