Gaza Hospital Attack: US President Biden embarks on Israel visit to engage with key leaders

Maryland (US), October 18: On Wednesday, US President Joe Biden left Joint Base Andrews, Maryland, for his visit to Israel, as reported by Reuters. During his visit, he will express solidarity in the wake of a recent terrorist attack by Hamas and engage in discussions with key Israeli leaders.

Upon his arrival in Israel, President Biden plans to discuss the next steps to be taken in response to the recent brutal attack by Hamas. Subsequently, he will travel to Jordan, where he will meet with regional leaders and address pressing humanitarian issues.

In a social media post, President Biden expressed his intentions: "I'm traveling to Israel tomorrow to stand in solidarity in the face of Hamas's brutal terrorist attack and to consult on the next steps. I'll then travel to Jordan to meet with leaders and address dire humanitarian needs--and make clear that Hamas does not stand for Palestinians' right to self-determination."

Speaking about the upcoming visit, John Kirby, the National Security Council (NSC) coordinator for strategic communications in the US, stated, "President Biden will have two stops, Tel Aviv and Amman, Jordan. In both these stops, he will talk about how important it is for the US and other partners to stand up for Israel and allow them to continue to defend themselves against Hamas terrorists. The US support will stay strong and steady. President will also spend time talking with leaders in Israel and Jordan about the plight of those hostages that Hamas is holding, including some Americans."

Kirby highlighted the importance of addressing the humanitarian situation in Gaza for the Palestinian people, emphasising that this trip is a critical opportunity for regional leaders to send a strong signal to terrorists and show support for civilians affected by the conflict.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, during a press conference, emphasized that President Biden's visit to Israel comes at a "critical moment" and will reiterate the United States' solidarity with Israel. He mentioned that President Biden will continue to coordinate closely with Israeli partners to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas.

Blinken further explained that President Biden will receive a comprehensive briefing on Israel's war aims and strategy. He underlined the importance of minimizing civilian casualties and ensuring the flow of humanitarian assistance to civilians in Gaza while preventing any benefit to Hamas. The US and Israel have collaborated on a plan to facilitate humanitarian aid to Gaza and protect civilians.

"To that end, today and at our request, the United States and Israel have agreed to develop a plan that will enable humanitarian aid from donor nations and multilateral organizations to reach civilians in Gaza and them alone, including the possibility of creating areas to help keep civilians out of harm's way. It is critical that aid begins flowing into Gaza as soon as possible," Blinken added.

- With inputs from agencies

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