President Biden Reaffirms Support for Israel, Denies Genocide in Gaza

US President Joe Biden stated on Monday that the situation in Gaza is not genocide and reaffirmed his support for Israel during a White House event for Jewish American Heritage Month, as reported by The Hill. Speaking to guests in the Rose Garden, Biden dismissed allegations of genocide against Israel, criticized the International Criminal Court's request for a warrant against Israeli leaders for war crimes, and pledged continued support for Israel in its conflict with Hamas.

Biden acknowledged the trauma from the October 7 Hamas attacks, which killed over 1,000 Israelis. He emphasized, "Contrary to allegations against Israel made by the International Court of Justice, what's happening is not genocide. We reject that. And we'll always stand with Israel against threats to its security."

In recent weeks, other Biden officials have also rejected claims that Israel's military actions in Gaza, which have resulted in significant Palestinian casualties and inadequate access to food, water, and medicine, constitute genocide. The Hill noted that the reception included guests such as Attorney General Merrick Garland, Sen. Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Rep. Jared Moskowitz (D-Fla.), Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-Md.), and Sen. Ben Cardin (D-Md.). Biden also acknowledged the parents of Hersh Goldberg-Polin, an Israeli American held hostage by Hamas.

Biden assured that his administration is working to secure the release of remaining hostages taken on October 7, stating, "We're going to get them home." The President has balanced his approach to Israel by defending its right to respond to Hamas while urging increased aid to Gaza and better protection for civilians.

On Monday, Biden reiterated his support for Israel's actions against Hamas, saying, "...