US President Joe Biden staunchly defended Israel on Monday, asserting that Israeli forces are not committing genocide in their military campaign against Hamas militants in Gaza, countering accusations from pro-Palestinian demonstrators.
“What’s happening in Gaza is not genocide. We reject that,” Biden proclaimed at a Jewish American Heritage Month event held at the White House.
Biden has been met with protests at numerous events across the nation by pro-Palestinian advocates who have branded him “Genocide Joe” due to his unwavering support for Israel.
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During his address at the White House event, Biden emphasized his view that Israel has been a victim since the Oct. 7 assault on southern Israel by Hamas militants, which resulted in the deaths of 1,200 individuals and the taking of hundreds of hostages.
He reiterated that U.S. backing for the safety and security of Israelis is “ironclad.”
“We stand with Israel to eliminate (Hamas leader Yahya) Sinwar and the remaining butchers of Hamas. We want Hamas defeated. We’re collaborating with Israel to achieve this,” he stated.
Negotiations between Israel and Hamas to secure the release of sick, elderly, and wounded hostages held by the militants have reached an impasse, but Biden vowed to continue efforts to secure their release.
“We’re going to get them home, come hell or high water,” Biden declared.
Biden has also called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, a stance he reiterated during his commencement speech at Morehouse College on Sunday.
Furthermore, Biden dismissed the International Criminal Court’s prosecutor for requesting arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his defense chief over alleged war crimes.
On Monday, the ICC prosecutor also announced the request for arrest warrants for Hamas chief Sinwar and two other Hamas leaders.
In recent months, Biden has faced mounting political pressure from his own party regarding his handling of the Gaza conflict, as the Palestinian death toll has climbed to over 35,000 people, according to the Gaza Health Ministry, and Israel’s siege has created dire humanitarian conditions in the territory.
