“We cannot lose sight of the fact that the vast majority of Palestinians had nothing to do with Hamas and Hamas’s horrific attacks, but at the end of the day they are suffering as well,” Biden said in a speech in Philadelphia.
The US president reiterated his strong support for Israel after last Saturday’s attack by Hamas militants, which he called pure evil.
“We’re making sure Israel has what it needs to defend itself and respond to these attacks,” Biden said.
“I also have a priority to urgently address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza,” he said. “At my direction, our teams are working in the region, including direct communication with the governments of Israel, Egypt, Jordan and other Arab countries, as well as the United Nations, to mobilize support.”
Mr Biden said earlier on Friday he had spoken with the families of Americans taken hostage by Hamas militants.
“They are going through agony not knowing the status of their sons, daughters, husbands, wives, children,” he said.
“We are working around the clock to secure the release of Americans held by Hamas, working closely with Israel and our partners across the region,” the president emphasized. “We won’t stop until we get them home.”
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#Biden #Solving #humanitarian #crisis #Gaza #Strip #priority
**Interview with Dr. Sarah Jamal, Middle East Expert**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us, Dr. Jamal. President Biden recently emphasized the distinction between the actions of Hamas and the suffering of the Palestinian people. What are your thoughts on this statement?
**Dr. Jamal:** Thank you for having me. I believe President Biden’s remarks are crucial. It’s important to recognize that the vast majority of Palestinians are civilians who are caught in the crossfire of a complex and long-standing conflict. Their suffering should not be overshadowed by the actions of a militant group.
**Editor:** Absolutely. Many argue that the ongoing situation often leads to collective punishment of Palestinians. How does this perspective influence international response?
**Dr. Jamal:** The concept of collective punishment is highly contentious under international law and can galvanize both public opinion and diplomatic efforts. If the international community acknowledges that most Palestinians are innocent, it may lead to more nuanced conversations about aid, protection, and potential pathways to peace that do not punish civilians for the actions of groups like Hamas.
**Editor:** Given the historical context, what steps can be taken to alleviate the humanitarian crisis facing Palestinian civilians?
**Dr. Jamal:** Addressing the humanitarian crisis requires immediate access to essential services and aid, as well as long-term political solutions that respect the rights and aspirations of both Israelis and Palestinians. Open dialogue, humanitarian corridors, and engagement with various stakeholders can facilitate this.
**Editor:** Thank you, Dr. Jamal. Your insights are invaluable as we navigate these complex issues.
**Dr. Jamal:** Thank you for having me. It’s imperative that we continue to advocate for the well-being and rights of all individuals affected by this conflict.
