Amidst escalating violence in the Gaza Strip, US President Joe Biden has called for patience regarding the ongoing Israeli military operations, which have claimed thousands of Palestinian lives. In an interview with The New Yorker published on Monday, Biden emphasized the need to give Israel "just a little bit of time" to continue its campaign against Hamas, the ruling authority in Gaza.
The comments come as the death toll from the conflict surpassed 30,500 Palestinians since the commencement of the genocidal war on October 7th. The conflict was triggered by the al-Aqsa Storm, a surprise operation launched by Gaza's resistance groups, including Hamas, in response to the prolonged Israeli occupation and aggression against Palestinians.
Biden acknowledged the pressure on Israeli leadership to take decisive action against Hamas but expressed hope for a "significant downturn" in the use of force. However, despite international calls for a halt in hostilities, including an order from the International Court of Justice on January 26th to prevent genocide in Gaza, Israeli airstrikes have intensified.
The Israeli regime has vowed to continue its military offensive until achieving its declared objectives, including the "destruction" of Hamas. Biden, while expressing concern for Palestinian lives, reiterated unwavering support for Israel, a stance consistent with longstanding US policy. The United States has vetoed multiple UN Security Council resolutions calling for an immediate ceasefire and provides substantial military and intelligence assistance to Israel.
Biden's stance has faced criticism, with growing discontent among some voters, particularly in Michigan, where more than 100,000 Democrats voted "Uncommitted" in the primary election in protest against Biden's handling of the Gaza crisis. Despite this, Biden remains committed to his approach, further polarizing opinions on the US administration's foreign policy in the Middle East.