U.S. President Joe Biden expressed relief and optimism regarding the recent developments in the Middle East, particularly concerning the release of a young American hostage and the ongoing cease-fire between Israel and Hamas.
During a speech in Nantucket, Massachusetts, where he celebrated Thanksgiving, President Biden shared his sentiments about the release of four-year-old Abigail Mor Edan. Abigail, who turned four while in captivity, was one of the 17 hostages released by Hamas on the third day of the temporary cease-fire. Biden, alongside First Lady Jill Biden, conveyed their prayers and relief for Abigail’s safety, noting she is now in Israel.
The cease-fire, which began on Friday, was part of a deal involving the daily release of hostages and facilitating aid to Gaza. President Biden expressed hope that this pause in hostilities, scheduled to conclude on Monday with the last group of hostages being freed, might be extended. He mentioned that the agreement involved extending the cease-fire by one day for every ten hostages released.
Biden has been an advocate for this pause, aiming to assist civilians in Gaza and expedite hostage releases. He indicated that the situation’s dynamics suggest a collective effort to resolve the crisis, particularly in releasing all hostages.
The deal also included the exchange of Palestinian prisoners for Israeli hostages. With an estimated 240 people initially held by Hamas, including at least nine Americans and one legal U.S. resident, the situation has been a focal point of international concern.
Tragically, Abigail’s parents were killed at the Kfar Aza kibbutz, as revealed by her great-aunt Liz Hirsh Naftali. While not divulging much about Abigail’s current condition, Biden acknowledged he had not seen any photographs but confirmed she was safe in Israel.
In his remarks, President Biden extended gratitude to the Emir of Qatar for assisting in the hostage negotiations and indicated plans to speak with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu soon. He emphasized the United States’ continuous engagement with Qatar, Egypt, and Israel in navigating this complex situation.