WASHINGTON (JTA) — Biden Pledges Support for Israel in Fight Against Hamas
President Joe Biden assured a Jewish audience that he will ensure Israel has “everything it needs” to combat Hamas, following a period of tension over the delay in delivering large bombs to Israel.
Speaking at a White House reception for Jewish American Heritage Month, Biden stated, “I’ll always ensure that Israel has everything it needs to defend itself against Hamas, and all its enemies.” The crowd in the Rose Garden responded with cheers and applause.
Biden also condemned the allegations of genocide against Israel in the International Court of Justice, where a prosecutor announced plans to seek war crimes charges against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and top Hamas officials.
“We reject the ICC’s application for arrest warrants against Israeli leaders,” Biden declared. “Contrary to allegations of genocide, what’s happening is not genocide.”
Following the pause in the delivery of large bombs to Israel, concerns were raised by some Jewish leaders in the United States. Biden cited worries about Israel’s conduct during the conflict with Hamas and its efforts to protect civilians.
Although the pause remains in effect, tensions have decreased, with reports of successful evacuations of Palestinians from Rafah. National Security Adviser Jakes Sullivan visited Israel and indicated agreement on most issues between the Biden administration and the Netanyahu government.
Defense Minister Yoav Gallant and military chief of staff Herzi Halevi presented alternative approaches to defeating Hamas in Rafah, focusing on humanitarian efforts and minimizing harm to civilians.
Biden reiterated U.S. support for Israel’s goals and emphasized the shared objective of eliminating Hamas as a threat. He also addressed concerns of antisemitism, particularly on college campuses, calling for a zero-tolerance policy for hate speech and violence against Jews.
At a conference of the Jewish Democratic Council of America, Sen. Chuck Schumer highlighted the $14 billion in support provided to Israel without conditions under the Biden administration. The event also featured the parents of an American-Israeli hostage, urging continued efforts to bring home the remaining hostages in Gaza.