In the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas comes the statement of US President Joe Biden: “What’s happening in Gaza is not Genocide.” On 20th May 2024, the US President addressed the Jewish American Month Heritage event at the White House when he defended the campaign of Israeli forces in the Gaza Strip against Hamas militants.
Mr. Biden’s statement came contrary to the request to the International Criminal Court (ICC) for arrest warrants of Israeli defense chief including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. On Thursday, a lawsuit was filed by three Palestine Human Rights Organisations with the International Criminal Court, requesting arrest warrants against the Israeli defense chief along with PM Benjamin.
The ICC prosecutor Karim Khan also demanded the arrest of Hamas chief Sinwar along with two other leaders. Besides, earlier, the ICC prosecutor mentioned in a statement that he had reasonable grounds to believe that these five men “bear criminal responsibility” for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity.
Further, the U.S. President also remarked that it was Israel that became the victim on October 7, 2023, in the attack by Hamas militants on Southern Israel. Around 1200 people were killed, and hundreds were taken hostage.
He also mentions that the U.S. supports the safety and security of Israelis as “ironclad.” He confirmed that they stand with Israel to take out the Hamas leader Sinwar and the rest of the butcher of Hamas. He also stated that they want Hamas defeated and are working with Israel to make that happen.
Moreover, Biden added that the current situation of “innocent Palestinians who are suffering due to the war and tension created by Hamas is “heartbreaking”. He also said that his team is working to provide “critical humanitarian assistance” to them.
Negotiations have been delayed between Israel and Hamas to gain the freedom of elderly, sick, and wounded hostages still held by militants. However, Biden promises not to give up trying to get their freedom. “We’re going to get them home, we’re going to get ’em home, come hell or high water,” Mr. Biden mentioned.
In recent times, Mr. Biden has faced political pressure from his own party regarding the handling of the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas as the Palestinian deaths reached 35000, according to the Gaza Health Ministry. Apart from this, Mr. Biden has also faced criticism at many events around the country from Pro Palestinian protesters and advocates labeling him as “Genocide Joe” for his firm support of Israel.
