Biden Criticizes Netanyahu Over Hostage Deal Amid Gaza Tensions

President Joe Biden has expressed dissatisfaction with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's efforts to secure a hostage release deal with Hamas. This comes after the bodies of six hostages were recovered in Gaza. Both leaders have exchanged criticisms over the issue, while ongoing negotiations remain unresolved.

President Joe Biden voiced criticism of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday, alleging insufficient efforts to secure a hostage release deal with Hamas. Biden's remarks followed the retrieval of six hostages' bodies from a Gaza tunnel, including American-Israeli Hersh Goldberg-Polin, aged 23. Israeli forces reported that the hostages had been recently executed by Palestinian Hamas militants.

Biden's comments have fueled criticism of his administration's Gaza ceasefire strategy and have increased pressure on Netanyahu from the Israeli public to ensure the return of the remaining hostages. When asked if Netanyahu was adequately pursuing a hostage deal, Biden simply responded, "No," without further elaboration.

Netanyahu countered by asserting that pressure should be directed at Hamas. He argued that any perceived concessions on Israel's part would encourage more hostage killings. Netanyahu reaffirmed that those serious about peace would not demand further concessions from Israel, emphasizing that Hamas needed to make changes. Meanwhile, Biden mentioned that a final hostage deal was nearing completion and reiterated his hope for a successful outcome. Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris met with the U.S. hostage negotiation team to discuss next steps.

(With inputs from agencies.)