President Biden finally found a gap in his schedule.
Since October 7, Biden has taken multiple trips to his home in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, and even squeezed in a long Thanksgiving trip to Nantucket. It’s been a full 67 days since eight Americans were taken hostage by Hamas terrorists during the massacre in Israel.
CNN reported that some families had approached the White House, asking permission to attend the White House ceremony marking the season of Hanukkah, likely to show solidarity. Instead, the Biden administration ghosted these families.
This is not a good look.
The White House made sure to promote this event on social media.
I just sat down with the loved ones of Americans taken hostage by Hamas to hear their stories.
I reassured them that I will continue doing everything possible to secure the release of their family members.
And that we will not give up hope. pic.twitter.com/eZLrlW63LI
— President Biden (@POTUS) December 13, 2023
Who was at the White House meeting Wednesday?
Eight Americans believed to be held hostage attended the meeting. Yael Alexander was present, as were Adi Chen and Ronen Neutra. Gillian Kaye and Jonathan Dekel Chen also attended.
Jon Finer, the deputy national security adviser, and Antony Blinken (secretary of state) were also present at the meeting.
Bret Baier of Fox News, who hosted the segment on Wednesday, asked families what they intended to say to Biden personally. Jonathan Dekel Chen’s father, Sagui Dekel Chen (35), said: “President Biden and the entire Administration have been amazing allies during this battle to bring our loved ones back. He added, “Great efforts have been made.” We are asking for more. These are critical moments. ”
Ruby Chen’s father, Itay Chen (19), has said that the U.S. must pressure countries like Egypt and Qatar to coordinate an international effort for the release of the remaining hostages.
Biden was one of only a few who visited the families. Speaker Mike Johnson invited them to the Capitol Menorah Lighting on Tuesday. He said, “The Jewish People have faced unspeakable horrors, especially over the past two months.” “The only way you can eliminate darkness is to flood it with light. ”
Biden’s Democratic colleague, Sen. John Fetterman (D-PA), is one of DC’s staunchest supporters of Israel, and the hostage families, in particular. After the 7th of October, he met with every family individually and promised to plaster posters around his office of the missing hostages.
Biden’s delay in arranging this meeting is shameful. Gone are the days when our presidents were “the nation’s grandfathers” who would help American families in times of crisis.
