President Biden on Friday called family members of the 14 Americans unaccounted for following Saturday’s attack by Hamas terrorists on Israel, the White House said.

“The president conveyed directly to these families that they have been in his prayers and reaffirmed for them that the United States government is doing everything possible to locate and bring home their loved ones,” said national security spokesman John Kirby.

Several family members shared personal stories with the president, Mr. Kirby said.

Participating in the call were White House and State Department officials, including national security adviser Jake Sullivan, Special Envoy for Hostage Affairs Roger Carstens and National Security Council Coordinator for the Middle East Brett McGurk.

The fate of the 14 Americans remains unknown, but U.S. officials said at least some of them have been taken hostage by Hamas.

The officials are working with Israel, Qatar and other allies in the Middle East to secure their release, according to Mr. Kirby.

Speaking about the captives Wednesday, Mr. Biden insisted his administration is doing “a lot” to bring them home.

“I have not given up hope on bringing these folks home. But the idea that I’m going to stand here before you and tell you what I’m doing is bizarre,” he said.

• Jeff Mordock can be reached at jmordock@washingtontimes.com.