President Joe Biden’s meeting with Abigail Edan, a 4-year-old American girl held hostage in Gaza for several weeks during the Israel-Hamas conflict, showcased both hope and determination. The White House gathering with Abigail and her family emphasized the ongoing efforts to secure the release of dozens of individuals still held captive by Hamas terrorists following the October 7 attack on Israel.
Abigail, holding dual Israeli-U.S. citizenship, became a hostage after her parents were killed in the attack. Her release nearly seven weeks later marked the first U.S. hostage freed by Hamas terrorists as part of an early-war deal to exchange hostages for Palestinian prisoners. Notably, Abigail celebrated her fourth birthday during her captivity.
White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan, present at the meeting, stated, “It was a reminder of the work still to do” to secure the release of all hostages. He emphasized that the administration is working tirelessly to bring them back safely to their loved ones.
According to Israel, Hamas terrorists continue to hold approximately 100 hostages and the remains of over 30 individuals. President Biden had spoken to Abigail shortly after her release in November. The recent meeting with the Edan family was a blend of emotions, as Sullivan noted Abigail’s resilience amidst the tragedy and trauma she endured.
However, amidst the joy of Abigail’s return, the release of a recorded video by Hamas terrorists on Wednesday highlighted the ongoing ordeal of Israeli American Hersh Goldberg-Polin, who remains captive. U.S. law enforcement is currently assessing the video, but Sullivan declined further comment.
Abigail’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the devastating impact of terrorism and the unwavering determination to secure the freedom of all hostages.
