President Biden Stands Strong with Hostage Families, Pledges Ongoing Support in White House Showdown!
President Biden met with families of Americans held hostage by Hamas, expressing support and reassurance. While some hostages have been released, efforts continue to secure the release of the remaining eight Americans. Biden's meeting follows criticism of Israel's government.
President Joe Biden met with the families of Americans held hostage by Hamas in an in-person meeting at the White House. The meeting, attended by family members of the eight Americans believed to be held hostage, included Yael and Adi Alexander, Ruby and Roy Chen, Ronen and Orna Neutra, Gillian Kaye, Jonathan Dekel-Chen, Aviva, Elan, Shir, and Hanna Siegel, and Liz Naftali. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and deputy national security adviser Jon Finer also participated in the meeting. After the meeting, the family members spoke to reporters outside the White House, holding up photos of their loved ones.
Jonathan Dekel-Chen, the father of 35-year-old hostage Sagui Dekel-Chen, described the meeting as a "terrific meeting and conversation" and expressed gratitude for President Biden's support. While the content of the conversation remains private, the families expressed their belief that they have no better friend in Washington than President Biden and his administration. President Biden reassured the families that he will continue to do everything possible to secure the release of their loved ones. The diplomatic efforts of the United States have already resulted in the release of more than 100 hostages, including four Americans.
Natalie and Judith Raanan were released on October 20, and 4-year-old Abigail Edan, whose parents were killed by Hamas, was released on November 26. Liat Beinin, a high school teacher and tour guide, was released on November 29. However, eight Americans are still unaccounted for, including those being held hostage. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, who has met with the families multiple times, will discuss the hostage situation during his travel to Israel this week. Vice President Kamala Harris and Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff also met with the families in October. President Biden's meeting with the families follows his recent criticism of Israel's right-wing government. Biden emphasized the need for change within the Israeli government to facilitate progress. Despite these challenges, President Biden and his administration remain committed to working tirelessly to secure the safe release of all hostages.