By Lerte Tellah – Nairobi
President Joe Biden has criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, stating that he is not doing enough to secure a hostage deal and ceasefire with Hamas. This comes amid reports that a new proposal, described as a “final” offer, will be presented to Netanyahu.
During a meeting in the Situation Room, Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris discussed the next steps in the negotiations, alongside other officials. When asked whether Netanyahu’s efforts were sufficient, Biden replied, “no,” and emphasized that the U.S. would “push as hard as we can” for a deal.
U.S. officials have characterized this latest proposal as a “take it or leave it deal,” according to a report by the Washington Post. The urgency for a resolution increased following the deaths of six hostages in Gaza, including Israeli-American Hersh Goldberg-Polin, which sparked widespread protests in Israel criticizing Netanyahu’s management of the conflict.
Biden expressed his outrage over the deaths, stating, “Make no mistake, Hamas leaders will pay for these crimes.” His administration has been working with mediators from Qatar and Egypt to secure a deal that includes a ceasefire and the release of remaining hostages.
On Sunday, National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan informed the families of the hostages that Biden would propose a “final” deal this week. Families, including that of Edan Alexander, an Israeli soldier still held hostage, have pushed for Israel to accept the deal, warning that it is “now or never.”
Adi Alexander, Edan’s father, urged U.S. officials to take a different approach, criticizing Netanyahu for “prolonging the war for short-term political gain.”
The Biden administration has faced challenges from both Hamas and Israeli demands, with pressure mounting as the situation in Gaza worsens. The ongoing conflict, which began on October 7 after Hamas breached the Gaza border, has led to significant loss of life on both sides, including over 40,000 Palestinians killed in retaliatory attacks by Israel, according to the Gaza health ministry.
The situation also has political implications for Biden and Harris as they prepare for the upcoming U.S. presidential election. Pro-Palestinian factions within the Democratic Party have been urging for a ceasefire, while Republican nominee Donald Trump has blamed them for failing to secure a deal and for the recent deaths of hostages.
