President Joe Biden, in a solemn statement, confirmed on Tuesday that there are American citizens among the hostages being held by Hamas following the recent wave of violence. He expressed his deep anger and condemnation of these acts of terror and underscored his expectation that Israel would respond resolutely.
During his address, the President vividly described the horrors perpetrated by the militants, stating that they had “butchered” and “massacred” innocent people. He revealed that the known number of Americans killed in the attacks now stands at 14, calling these actions “abhorrent” and likening Hamas’ brutality to some of the worst actions committed by ISIS.
In this 10-minute speech, the President aimed to demonstrate unwavering support for Israel during this crisis. He unequivocally condemned the attacks and did not advocate for restraint on Israel’s part, while emphasizing the importance of adhering to the rule of law.
President Biden used stark language to recount the “sheer evil” of the attack and cautioned other governments in the region against exploiting the situation: “I have one word: Don’t.”
The President, after earlier discussions with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, also shared his perspective on what Israel’s response might entail.
President Biden, speaking from the State Dining Room, asserted that the United States would respond decisively if confronted with the same situation Israel is facing, expressing his anger and determination. He acknowledged the presence of American hostages among those held by Hamas, confirming what was already believed but not publicly stated prior to his speech.
National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan mentioned that the administration estimates there are “20 or more Americans” missing in Israel, although this number may not necessarily correspond to the number of hostages in Hamas custody. The White House is actively engaged in discussions with Israel to facilitate the return of American citizens held by Hamas, recognizing the challenges of conducting hostage recovery efforts in an active war zone.
Biden emphasized that his highest priority as President is the safety of American hostages worldwide. He pledged to share intelligence and deploy additional experts to support Israeli efforts in recovering hostages.
Furthermore, the President announced his intention to request additional funding from Congress to assist Israel in defending its territory and citizens. He committed to ensuring that Israel does not run out of ammunition and interceptors for its Iron Dome air defense system, which intercepts rockets before they hit Israeli territory, emphasizing the importance of global security and the United States’ commitment to Israel’s safety.
During his speech, Biden was flanked by Vice President Kamala Harris and Secretary of State Antony Blinken. He did not caution Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu against a potential ground incursion into Gaza, recognizing the unique and shocking circumstances of Hamas’ attack on Israel.
Biden emphasized the need for any response to adhere to the rule of law, distinguishing Israel and the United States from Hamas militants. He condemned the targeting of civilians by terrorists and emphasized the importance of upholding the laws of war.
The Biden administration is closely monitoring the possibility of a ground incursion into Gaza and is aware of the complexity of the situation. While the U.S. typically urges ceasefires in conflicts in the region, officials noted that the handling of discussions would remain private, and the term “ceasefire” was notably absent from Biden’s initial statement over the weekend. Israel would respond resolutely
The President compared the violence unleashed by Hamas to some of the worst attacks by ISIS in the previous decade, emphasizing the brutal nature of these acts. He also highlighted the historical suffering of the Jewish people and reaffirmed the U.S.’s unwavering support for Israel.
Biden mentioned increased security measures around Jewish centers domestically and a collaborative effort between law enforcement officials, state and local law enforcement, and the Jewish community to counter any potential domestic threats related to the attacks.