In recent days, the world has been closely following the escalating conflict between Israel and Hamas. The situation has garnered significant attention, with leaders from various countries expressing their views and offering support. Among those leaders is President Joe Biden, who has made it clear that the United States stands with Israel and will provide assistance to ensure its defense.
On September 20, 2023, President Biden had a call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The readout of the call emphasized the United States' commitment to supporting Israel and providing additional assistance to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) in their efforts to fend off Hamas attacks.[0] President Biden also updated Prime Minister Netanyahu on the intensive diplomatic engagement undertaken by the United States in support of Israel.
During a televised statement at the White House, President Biden reiterated the United States' unwavering support for Israel. He stated, “The United States stands with Israel. We will not ever fail to have their back.” He emphasized that Israel has the right to defend itself and its people against terrorist assaults.
President Biden's remarks have been met with both praise and criticism. Supporters of Israel applaud his commitment to standing by the country and providing assistance. They argue that the United States' support is crucial in ensuring Israel's security and deterring further aggression. On the other hand, critics accuse the Biden administration of enabling Hamas by allegedly providing funding to Iran, which then supports the militant group.[1] These critics argue that the administration's policies have emboldened Israel's enemies, leading to the current escalation in violence.[2]
The conflict between Israel and Hamas has highlighted the complex dynamics in the region. It has been suggested that a three-way deal between the United States, Saudi Arabia, and Israel was in the works, which could have reshaped geopolitics in the region.[3] However, this arrangement would have left the Palestinians marginalized.[4] Hamas, as the most militant group representing Palestinians, decided to disrupt the deal by launching thousands of rockets into Israel and infiltrating the country by land, sea, and air.[4]
The attacks by Hamas have resulted in significant casualties and damage. Dozens of Israelis have been killed, and parts of cities like Ashkelon have been devastated.[4] Israel has responded with force in an effort to protect its citizens and deter further attacks. The situation has drawn condemnation from leaders around the world, with many expressing their support for Israel's right to self-defense.
In response to the attacks, President Biden has pledged additional assistance to Israel.[5] The United States will provide the IDF with equipment, resources, and munitions to bolster their defense capabilities.[6] Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin has affirmed that the U.S. maintains ready forces globally to reinforce deterrence if necessary.[6]
The conflict between Israel and Hamas has also brought attention to the role of Iran in supporting militant groups. Iran has been a longstanding supporter of Hamas, providing financial assistance and military hardware, including missiles.[7] The Iranian regime has openly celebrated the recent attacks by Hamas, further highlighting its involvement.
The Israeli-Palestinian conflict has been ongoing for decades, marked by periods of relative calm and periods of heightened tension. The current escalation underscores the deep-rooted challenges and complexities of the situation. It is clear that finding a lasting solution that addresses the grievances of both Israelis and Palestinians is crucial to achieving lasting peace in the region.
As the conflict continues, the international community will closely monitor developments and strive to support efforts for de-escalation and a peaceful resolution. President Biden's commitment to standing with Israel and providing assistance demonstrates the United States' role in promoting stability and security in the region.
0. “Biden directs ‘additional assistance’ to Israel Defense Forces after call with Netanyahu” The Hill, 8 Oct. 2023, https://thehill.com/homenews/administration/4244548-biden-directs-additional-assistance-to-israel-defense-forces-in-call-with-netanyahu/
1. “Israeli Reserve Brigadier General Salutes Biden On Fox News: Thank You for ‘Standing With Israel’” Mediaite, 8 Oct. 2023, https://www.mediaite.com/news/israeli-reserve-brigadier-general-salutes-biden-on-fox-news-thank-you-for-standing-with-israel/
2. “Auburn basketball Coach Pearl blasts Biden administration after…” 1819 News, 7 Oct. 2023, https://1819news.com/news/item/auburn-basketball-coach-pearl-blasts-biden-administration-after-terrorist-attack-near-gaza-strip-rhetoric-and-support-for-israels-sworn-enemies-emboldened-and-empowered-them
3. “Hamas just torched Biden's deal to remake the Middle East” The Straits Times, 8 Oct. 2023, https://www.straitstimes.com/opinion/hamas-just-torched-biden-s-deal-to-remake-the-middle-east
4. “Hamas torches Biden's deal to remake the Middle East” The Japan Times, 8 Oct. 2023, https://www.japantimes.co.jp/commentary/2023/10/08/world/hamas-attach-biden-deal/
5. “Assault on Israel fuels political attacks in the U.S. presidential race” The Washington Post, 8 Oct. 2023, https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2023/10/07/assault-israel-fuels-political-attacks-us-presidential-race/
6. “Biden to Netanyahu: Additional US military aid ‘on its way to Israel' | NHK WORLD-JAPAN News” NHK WORLD, 9 Oct. 2023, https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20231009_06
7. “Iran's Support Against Israel Bolsters Hamas” Council on Foreign Relations, 8 Oct. 2023, https://www.cfr.org/in-brief/irans-support-against-israel-bolsters-hamas
