Biden will speak with Israeli leaders on how to prevent unnecessary civilian casualties in the Gaza Strip as it continues to be targeted by airstrikes
President Biden will visit Israel on Wednesday to underscore his administration’s commitment to the Jewish state amid a standoff with Hamas.
Foreign Secretary Antony Blinken, confirming the visit on Monday night, described it as occurring at “a critical time for Israel, the region, and the world”.
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A White House official said the president will use the visit to reaffirm the United States’ solidarity with Israel and its unwavering commitment to Israel’s security.
Blinken also noted that during his visit, he will hold talks with Israeli leaders on strategies to reduce civilian casualties in the densely populated Gaza Strip, which has been the target of Israeli airstrikes.
“The president will listen to Israel’s approach to conducting operations in a way that does not benefit Hamas, minimizes harm to civilians, and allows humanitarian aid to be provided to the people of Gaza,” he explained.
In response to the conflict, Israel asked Gaza’s approximately 1 million residents to evacuate the northern territory.
The visit coincides with Biden’s pledge to support Israel. The administration has already pledged military support, including U.S. aid to the region. Sends carriers and support.
On Monday, Biden spoke with several world leaders and his own national security team about the humanitarian crisis in besieged Gaza amid fears the conflict could escalate.
Biden spoke by phone with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi, Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammad Shia al-Sudani, and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz about the fallout from surprise attacks by Hamas terrorist fighters on Israel that killed 1,400 and at least the fallout from retaliatory attacks. 2,778 Palestinians. Biden canceled a planned trip to Colorado on Monday where he was expected to promote his economic agenda.
After visiting Israel, Biden will visit neighboring Jordan to meet with Arab leaders as tensions rise in the region.
White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said Biden will meet with King Abdullah, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi, and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas.
“He will reiterate that Hamas will not stand up for the dignity and right of self-determination of the Palestinian people and will discuss the humanitarian needs of the citizens of Gaza,” the White House said of Biden’s upcoming visit.