President Joe Biden expressed his solidarity with Israel during his visit to the country. He assured that the United States would stand alongside Israel during these challenging times after Hamas launched attacks on the nation. Speaking in Tel Aviv alongside Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Biden reassured Israel, saying, “Israel, you are not alone. We will stand by your side during these difficult times.”
He also emphasized the commitment to Israel’s safety and its status as a secure, Jewish, and democratic state, stating, “today, tomorrow, and forever.” President Biden prayed for the protection of those working towards peace and the safety of those still at risk.
Regarding the recent hospital blast in Gaza, Biden expressed his outrage and sadness at the significant loss of life. He indicated that the evidence pointed to an unintentional rocket fired by a terrorist group in Gaza. He confirmed that he had asked the Israeli cabinet to approve the delivery of humanitarian aid to civilians in Gaza, with the condition that it should reach civilians and not Hamas. Israel had agreed to allow aid to move from Egypt to Gaza.
In addition to this, President Biden announced a new $100 million in U.S. funding for humanitarian assistance to both Gaza and the West Bank. He also promised an imminent and “unprecedented” defense package for Israel, which he planned to request from Congress later in the week. Biden reaffirmed that Israel was founded as a safe haven for Jewish people worldwide, and the United States was committed to doing “everything in our power” to ensure that safety once more.