Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu came under fire from Joe Biden, who claimed that he “is not doing enough” to achieve a ceasefire and hostage agreement.
President Joe Biden attacked Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, saying that he “is not doing enough” to secure a truce and hostage arrangement, amid demonstrations and a statewide strike in response to the murders of six captives by Hamas.
As he prepares to meet with US Vice President Kamala Harris, Biden makes these statements. The current President of the United States addressed media outside the White House prior to his meeting.
On Sunday, the Israel Defense Forces discovered the bodies of six hostages in Gaza. Protest group and the families of the hostages’ representatives declare that Netanyahu has failed.
When asked if “Netanyahu was doing enough” to liberate the detainees, a reporter asked. Biden answered, “No.”
“We’re getting pretty close to that,” the President said
Q: Do you think Netanyahu is doing enough?
— Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) September 2, 2024
BIDEN: No pic.twitter.com/IGz44B6M3B
Biden speaks to Hersh Goldberg-Polin’s family
Hersh Goldberg-Polin, a citizen of California, was one of the six captives that the Israeli military claims were “killed by Hamas” on Sunday.
After learning of the Israeli-American’s passing, Biden said he was “devastated and outraged,” speaking with Goldberg-Polin’s parents.
“I know all Americans tonight will have them in their prayers, just as Jill and I will,” he said in a statement. I am devastated to hear of Hersh’s passing, as I have devoted my life to ensuring his safe return. It is disgusting and tragic at the same time.
He said that Hamas will “pay for these crimes” in addition.
Here’s what Netanyahu has said
The autopsy, according to The Associated Press, showed that the hostages were shot at close range and died on Thursday or Friday.
On Sunday, tens of thousands of Israelis called on Netanyahu to negotiate a cease-fire with Hamas in exchange for ensuring the other hostages’ release. The largest labor union in Israel, the Histadrut, announced a national strike for Monday in the meantime.
A surprise attack carried out by Hamas on October 7 left over 1,200 people dead and about 250 captives taken prisoner. About 100 prisoners were released at the end of last year following a week-long cease-fire.
Netanyahu said on Sunday that anybody who back Hamas will have to “pay the price” when the hostages are killed.
“We’re not going to stop or remain silent. He declared, “Whoever murders hostages does not want a deal. We will pursue you, we will find you, and we will settle accounts with you.”
He asserted that attempts to free the detainees are “continuing constantly” and that Hamas had “refused to hold genuine negotiations.”
