Biden Criticizes Netanyahu Over Hostage Release Strategy Amid Gaza Conflict

President Joe Biden expressed dissatisfaction with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for not securing a hostage release deal with Hamas in Gaza. Israel recovered deceased hostages, including an American-Israeli, intensifying pressure on both leaders. Biden's comments reflect rising demands for action amid the prolonged Israel-Hamas conflict.

President Joe Biden voiced criticism towards Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday, regarding his efforts to secure the release of hostages held in Gaza by Hamas. Biden indicated that the U.S. was nearing a final proposal for negotiators on a hostage and ceasefire agreement.

The remarks came after Israeli forces retrieved the bodies of six hostages, including 23-year-old American-Israeli Hersh Goldberg-Polin, from a tunnel in Gaza over the weekend. Netanyahu countered Biden's comments, insisting that Hamas should face the pressure to make concessions, not Israel.

Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris met with the U.S. hostage negotiation team to discuss next steps. The conflict has heightened tensions within the Democratic Party over U.S. support for Israel. Meanwhile, Israeli and Palestinian protests intensified, and negotiations for a Gaza proposal remain unresolved despite efforts from the U.S., Qatar, and Egypt.

(With inputs from agencies.)