President Biden on Friday spoke for over an hour with families of 14 Americans who are missing following Hamas’ attack on Israel. At an event in Philadelphia, he spoke about his conversation with them.
He expressed how excruciating it is for them, as they remain unaware of the well-being of their sons, daughters, husbands, wives, and children. It’s an utterly heart-wrenching experience.
Continuing, he reiterated, “I gave them my word that I am personally dedicated to doing whatever it takes to reunite every missing American with their loved ones. Our team is tirelessly working day and night to ensure the safe release of Americans held captive by Hamas, closely collaborating with Israel and our allies across the region. Our relentless efforts will persist until we successfully bring them back home.”
According to the White House, the families were joined on the phone call by Special Envoy for Hostage Affairs Roger Carstens, National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, Undersecretary of State John Bass, and National Security Council Coordinator for the Middle East Brett McGurk, along with the president.
According to John Kirby, the National Security Council spokesman, the president assured the families that they have been in his prayers and emphasized the United States’ dedication to making every effort to reunite their loved ones.
During an unrelated speech in Philadelphia on Friday afternoon, the president expressed that they are tirelessly working to ensure the release of Americans held by Hamas. The president emphasized that they are closely collaborating with Israel and their regional partners to achieve this goal. The president reassured that their efforts will not cease until they successfully bring the Americans back home.
Officials from the White House and State Department made an effort to respond to inquiries posed by families during the call.
The U.S. believes Americans are among the scores of hostages being held by Hamas, which the U.S. has designated as a terrorist group. Hamas launched an attack on Israel on Oct. 7 that has killed at least 1,300 people. Israel has retaliated with airstrikes on the Gaza Strip, where health officials say some 1,800 people have been killed.
President Biden spoke with CBS News’ Scott Pelley, in an interview for 60 Minutes, before his meeting with the families.
According to Mr. Biden, it is crucial for them to understand that the president of the United States of America genuinely cares about their situation. The severity of the matter needs to be conveyed to the global community. Such behavior is not acceptable and goes beyond basic human decency. We will exert all efforts to bring them back home if they can be located.
The latest violence has claimed the lives of at least 27 Americans, as confirmed by National Security Council spokesman John Kirby.
