Obama meets family of journalist slain by Islamic State

MIAMI : US President Barack Obama met Thursday with the family of Steven Sotloff, who was abducted in Syria and beheaded by the Islamic State group in September.

"Today in Miami, President Obama had the opportunity to meet with Art and Shirley Sotloff, the parents of Steven Sotloff, and Steven´s sister Lauren," said National Security Council spokeswoman Bernadette Meehan.

"The president expressed his and the first lady´s condolences for Steven´s death," said Meehan, adding that Obama learned more about Sotloff´s life and the "2Lives" memorial foundation set up in his name.

The White House has repeatedly been criticized for its dealings with the families of journalists and others taken hostage by the self-proclaimed Islamic State.

Obama has launched a review of procedures and findings are expected within months, including the possible appointment of a White House "hostage czar."

Sotloff´s killer is suspected to be "Jihadi John," Kuwaiti-born London computer programmer Mohammed Emwazi.