Biden Criticizes Netanyahu’s Efforts on Gaza Hostage Deal
US President Joe Biden has expressed dissatisfaction with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s efforts to secure a hostage deal and establish a ceasefire with Hamas. This criticism comes as the Biden administration prepares to send a final proposal to Israel, following the deaths of six hostages in Gaza over the weekend.
“No,” Says Biden on Netanyahu’s Efforts
When asked if Netanyahu was doing enough to resolve the hostage crisis, President Biden firmly responded, “no.” He emphasized that the United States would continue to push as hard as possible to secure a deal, even as protests erupted across Israel in response to the deaths of the six hostages, including Israeli-American Hersh Goldberg-Polin.
US officials have described the latest proposal as a “take it or leave it deal,” signaling a growing urgency to resolve the situation. The proposal is the result of extensive negotiations involving Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris, and key US negotiators, who met in the Situation Room to finalize the details.
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Widespread Protests and Criticism of Netanyahu
The discovery of the six hostages’ bodies in Gaza has intensified public criticism of Netanyahu’s handling of the hostage crisis and the ongoing war. Protests have swept through Israel, with many accusing the prime minister of prolonging the conflict for political gain.
In a statement, President Biden expressed his devastation over the deaths of the hostages and vowed that Hamas leaders would be held accountable for their actions. The US, alongside Qatar and Egypt, has been actively working to broker a deal that would secure the release of the remaining hostages and establish a ceasefire in Gaza.
Hostage Families Urge Action
The urgency of the situation is further highlighted by the pleas from the families of those still held hostage in Gaza. The family of Edan Alexander, an Israeli soldier, has urged Israel to accept the US-brokered deal, calling it a “now or never” opportunity. Edan’s father, Adi Alexander, praised the US for its dedication but criticized Netanyahu for failing to act decisively.
During an interview with CBS News, Adi Alexander urged US officials to “do something different,” expressing frustration over the lack of progress after nearly a year. He accused Netanyahu of allowing the conflict to drag on, resulting in more casualties and suffering.
Biden Administration Faces Political Pressure
The hostage crisis and the broader conflict in Gaza have also had political implications for the Biden administration. As the 2024 presidential election approaches, Biden and Harris are facing criticism from within their party, particularly from pro-Palestinian factions that have called for a ceasefire.
The deaths of the six hostages have added pressure on the Biden administration to secure a deal quickly, with US officials acknowledging that time is running out. The Washington Post reported that the killings have increased the urgency among Biden’s team to push for a resolution.
As the situation continues to evolve, the US remains committed to working with its allies to bring about a peaceful resolution, but the path forward remains fraught with challenges and uncertainties.
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