Biden and Netanyahu Meet to Discuss Gaza Conflict and Hostage Deal

US President Joe Biden will meet Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu today to discuss the Gaza conflict and hostage negotiations with Hamas. They will also talk to families of hostages. This visit comes amid criticism of Israel's actions in Gaza and protests in the US.

US President Joe Biden is scheduled to meet Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu today to discuss the ongoing conflict in Gaza and the hostage negotiations with Hamas, the White House announced on Thursday. The two leaders will also engage with the families of hostages held by Hamas.

'Today, President Biden sits down with Prime Minister Netanyahu of Israel to talk about all things in the Middle East, particularly, of course, the conflict in Gaza,' said John Kirby, White House National Security Communications Advisor. Kirby emphasized the urgency of securing the hostages' release.

'Key issues on their agenda will include discussions about the hostage deal, which is still under negotiation. We believe we are close to an agreement, and it is absolutely urgent to get the hostages back home to their families,' Kirby added. 'Both leaders will also aim to establish a ceasefire in Gaza.'

Prime Minister Netanyahu is currently visiting the United States at a controversial time, as Israel is deeply engaged in a conflict with Hamas in the Gaza Strip. Over 39,000 Palestinians have reportedly been killed, sparking severe criticism of the US administration. More than 30 members of Congress boycotted Netanyahu's address to protest his handling of the conflict.

As Netanyahu spoke to a joint session of Congress on Wednesday, over 5,000 protesters filled the streets near Capitol Hill. Demonstrators waved Palestinian flags and called for the US to stop arming Israel. Some groups attempted to block Netanyahu's potential routes, distributing an effigy of him in handcuffs and even burning the American flag.

During his address, Netanyahu urged American leaders to provide bipartisan support amid Israel's ongoing conflict with Hamas in Gaza.