Two White House Officials: Biden to Meet with Families of American Hostages

Joe Biden, the President of the United States, is set to meet for the first time with the families of Americans who were taken hostage during the Hamas militants' attack on Israel on October 7. According to the Associated Press, two White House officials who wished to remain anonymous announced this. It is still unclear how many families will participate in this White House meeting, either in person or via video conference. The White House officials stated that Mr. Biden had previously met virtually with some family members and had spoken with others by phone. On Tuesday, December 12, the U.S. President said at an event in Washington, 'We will not stop our efforts until all hostages are returned home.' On Monday night, Biden also expressed support for 'the security of the Jewish people, the security of Israel, and their right to live' following the Hamas militants' attacks on October 7. Hamas and Islamic Jihad killed about 1,200 people in that attack, most of whom were civilians, and took approximately 240 hostages, including young children, the elderly, and women. Biden stated, 'We will continue to provide military assistance to Israel until they rid themselves of Hamas.' The U.S. expects Israel to use the received weapons in accordance with international laws of war.