December 13, 2023

President Biden convened with the relatives of Americans held captive by

Hamas on Wednesday. This meeting took place amidst an escalation of Israel’s military operations in Gaza, following a temporary halt in hostilities during which over 100 hostages were freed.

A seven-day truce led to the release of more than 100 hostages, including four Americans. However, the remaining hostages are still held incommunicado as Israel continues its offensive against Hamas in an attempt to dismantle its leadership and fighters. The ongoing conflict in Gaza has claimed the lives of over 18,000 people, as reported by local health authorities.

Family members of Americans still unaccounted for after the October 7 attack by the Palestinian militant group participated in the White House gathering, either in person or through phone communication. During the attack, Hamas militants seized 240 individuals when breaching the Israeli border, resulting in approximately 1,200 casualties, according to Israeli reports.

President Biden has been actively involved in addressing the hostage situation, engaging in multiple discussions with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the emir of Qatar to strategize on securing their release. A virtual meeting with the families of hostages was previously held on October 13. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan has also met with the families multiple times and is expected to address the hostage situation during his current trip to Israel.