President Biden commemorated the onset of Passover with a message on Sunday, intertwining the Jewish holiday with the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict and reiterating his steadfast support for Israel among the turmoil.
“In the face of adversity, Passover serves as a poignant reminder that maintaining faith empowers us to endure and triumph,” Biden penned. “We must never forget the abhorrent atrocities committed by Hamas.”
Expressing an unwavering commitment to the safety of Jewish communities and the sovereignty of Israel as an independent nation, Biden emphasized, “My dedication to Israel’s security and its rightful existence as a sovereign Jewish state remains unshakeable.”
Biden Affirms ‘Unwavering’ Support for Israel (Credits: The Times of Israel)
In the middle of mounting criticism of Israel’s military campaign in Gaza, particularly from within Democratic circles, Biden restated his administration’s pursuit of a temporary ceasefire to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas.
Efforts to negotiate the release of approximately 100 individuals believed to be held captive by the group have hit roadblocks, with the Israeli military poised for a potential incursion into Rafah, despite stern warnings from the Biden administration and others against escalating the conflict on the ground.
“My administration is tirelessly engaged in securing the release of hostages, and we will persist until they are safely returned,” Biden affirmed. “Our commitment remains steadfast in pursuing a two-state solution that ensures equal security, prosperity, and enduring peace for both Israelis and Palestinians.”
President Biden (Credits: CNN)
Biden’s message also follows a recent incident in which Iran launched a barrage of projectiles toward Israel in retaliation for an earlier Israeli strike. Although most of the projectiles were intercepted before reaching their targets, the incident raised concerns about the possibility of a broader regional conflict.
Additionally, Biden condemned antisemitism, reiterating his administration’s efforts to combat the surge in hateful conduct, which experts have observed increasing in recent months.
“As we reflect on the historical plight of the Jewish people during Passover, we must actively denounce the alarming rise of antisemitism in our schools, communities, and online platforms,” Biden asserted. “Silence in the face of such hatred is unacceptable.”
