Families of the American hostages held captive in Gaza are currently in Chicago this week for the Democratic National Convention. Some family members are expected to be present inside the United Center on Monday to listen to President Joe Biden's speech.
While convention organizers have not confirmed whether the family members have been assigned speaking slots, sources indicate that the plight of the hostages and the importance of a potential hostage deal will be addressed in some capacity during the convention.
The ongoing hostage negotiations in the Middle East are casting a shadow over this week's convention. Antony Blinken, President Biden's top diplomat, is currently in the region working to advance the talks.
The Israel-Hamas conflict has created significant divisions within the Democratic Party. For President Biden, the negotiations to secure the release of captives held in Gaza in exchange for a ceasefire represent a crucial opportunity to bring an end to the grueling conflict.
Notably, at the Republican National Convention held in July, family members of another American citizen held hostage in Gaza, Omer Neutra, made emotional appeals for his release.
