US President Joe Biden strongly condemned attacks by “Hamas terrorists” against Israel and vowed to ensure the key US ally has the means to defend itself. In a televised address from the White House, Biden described the attacks as a “terrible tragedy on a human level” and reaffirmed the United States’ unwavering support for Israel’s security.
Biden also warned any hostile parties trying to exploit the attacks to gain an advantage, indicating that the world is watching the situation. He stated that Israel has the right to defend itself and protect its people from it. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin reaffirmed Washington’s commitment to Israel and said the Department of Defense will work to assure Israel of what it needs in the coming days.
Former President Donald Trump’s accusations that Hamas attacks were indirectly funded by the Biden administration were refuted by the White House, calling them a “shameful lie.” Meanwhile, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau expressed Canada’s full support for Israel and its right to defend itself.
The violence has left at least 232 dead in the Gaza Strip and at least 70 in Israel since the start of the fighting. Tensions between the United States and Israel have increased, especially due to the policies of the Israeli government led by Benjamin Netanyahu. Biden and his administration have been working to normalize relations between Israel and Saudi Arabia while continuing to express strong support for Israel’s security amid the conflict with Hamas.