US Prez Biden criticizes Israel PM Netanyahu for not doing enough to secure hostage deal

Biden’s comments followed the recent recovery of six hostages’ bodies by Israeli forces from a tunnel in Gaza. Among the deceased is Hersh Goldberg-Polin, a 23-year-old American-Israeli. The hostages were reportedly killed by Hamas militants shortly before being discovered.

The discovery of the hostages’ bodies has intensified criticism of the Biden administration’s approach to the Gaza ceasefire and has increased domestic pressure on Netanyahu to secure the release of the remaining captives.

When asked if Netanyahu was adequately addressing the situation, Biden responded simply, “No,” without providing further details. He did indicate, however, that a final proposal for the hostage deal could be presented to both sides within the week, adding, “We’re very close to that.”

Regarding the proposal’s potential success, he remained optimistic, saying, “Hope springs eternal.”

Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris were slated to meet with the US hostage deal negotiating team, on Monday, to discuss efforts toward an agreement for the release of the remaining captives.

Meanwhile, Israeli protesters took to the streets for a second consecutive day on Monday, and the country’s largest trade union, Histadrut, initiated a general strike to pressure the government into securing a deal for the return of hostages still held by Hamas. The discovery of six additional captives’ bodies in Gaza intensified the unrest. The strike led to significant disruptions in transport and medical services across various Israeli districts, with numerous shops and businesses closing their doors following Histadrut’s call for the general stoppage.