Ongoing disputes in the Middle Eastern region - Biden expresses optimism for a hostage agreement and offers criticism towards Netanyahu.
Biden still holds out hope for a hostage exchange agreement, expressing frustration over Netanyahu's limited engagement. During a press conference in Washington, he stated, "We're nearly there," referring to the impending finalization of a deal for the liberation of the remaining captives held by Hamas. In response to inquiries regarding his optimism after multiple unsuccessful negotiations, he remarks, "Everlasting hope!" He additionally voiced disappointment over Netanyahu's contributions to the negotiations. When quizzed about Netanyahu's efforts to secure a hostage deal, Biden replies, "Not really."
After the grim discovery of six deceased hostages in the Gaza Strip, public pressure on Netanyahu's administration has significantly increased in Israel. Mass protests erupted in Tel Aviv, marking the largest since the commencement of the war. Demonstrators are demanding Netanyahu to strike a hostage deal with the radical Islamic Hamas.
Over 101 hostages continue to be held captive in the Gaza Strip
During the October attack on Israel, Hamas and other militant Palestinian groups led by extremists claimed the lives of over 1,200 individuals and kidnapped approximately 250 people, transporting them to the Gaza Strip. Israel retaliated with intense airstrikes and a ground offensive in the Gaza Strip. Some captives have managed to regain their freedom, while eight were rescued alive by the military. However, Israeli analysts estimate that more than 101 individuals are still being kept by Islamists, with the number of survivors yet to be confirmed.
Negotiations for a deal hit a roadblock
Protracted discussions between Israel and Hamas, orchestrated by the U.S., Qatar, and Egypt, have been underway for months with an aim to secure a truce and hostage release. These discussions have resulted in minimal progress.
As per "The Washington Post," intermediaries are prepared to submit a final proposal to the involved parties imminently. However, should both parties reject it once again, it may signal the end of negotiations, according to a high-ranking official from the Biden administration.
The United States government, led by President Biden, is heavily involved in the negotiations for the hostage release, expressing their disappointment with Netanyahu's limited engagement. Despite the setbacks, Biden remains hopeful, stating, "We're nearly there," in reference to the liberation of the remaining captives in the Gaza Strip, which is home to over 101 hostages still being held by Islamists.
