'That's leadership': Joe Biden praised for bringing together coalition to 'stand with Israel'
WASHINGTON, DC: President Joe Biden drew praise for orchestrating a joint statement from the leaders of the UK, France, Germany, and Italy, expressing unwavering support for the State of Israel and condemning the actions of the Palestinian militant group Hamas.
This joint statement comes in response to an unprecedented attack on Israel by Hamas, followed by Israeli airstrikes and a comprehensive blockade of the Gaza Strip. The statement, released after a call between the leaders of these nations, highlighted their united stance.
United against terrorism
"We express our steadfast and united support to the State of Israel, and our unequivocal condemnation of Hamas and its appalling acts of terrorism," the statement said.
"We make clear that the terrorist actions of Hamas have no justification, no legitimacy, and must be universally condemned."
"In recent days, the world has watched in horror as Hamas terrorists massacred families in their homes, slaughtered over 200 young people enjoying a music festival, and kidnapped elderly women, children, and entire families, who are now being held as hostages," the statement continued.
The leaders of the Quint international organization, comprising the UK, France, Germany, Italy, and the US, pledged their support for Israel in its efforts to defend itself against these heinous acts.
"Our countries will support Israel in its efforts to defend itself and its people against such atrocities. We further emphasize that this is not a moment for any party hostile to Israel to exploit these attacks to seek advantage," they stated.
"All of us recognize the legitimate aspirations of the Palestinian people and support equal measures of justice and freedom for Israelis and Palestinians alike. But make no mistake: Hamas does not represent those aspirations, and it offers nothing for the Palestinian people other than more terror and bloodshed," the statement added.
"Over the coming days, we will remain united and coordinated, together as allies, and as common friends of Israel, to ensure Israel is able to defend itself, and to ultimately set the conditions for a peaceful and integrated Middle East region," it concluded, as quoted by Haaretz.
President Biden, in response to the attacks and the loss of at least 11 American lives, emphasized the deep ties between the United States and Israel. He stated, "This is not some distant tragedy," underlining the significance of the relationship.
Biden lauded on social media
Biden's efforts to bring world leaders together to unanimously condemn the terror attacks garnered praise from many quarters.
Supporters took to social media to commend his leadership, with one person writing, "Within a single day, President Biden successfully brought together the heads of states from France, Germany, Italy, and the UK, who united to issue a collective statement endorsing and safeguarding Israel."
"A True Leader will lead by his actions and has the confidence to stand alone, the courage to make tough decisions, and the compassion to listen to the needs of others. That’s our President Joe Biden," someone else gushed.
"Joe getting things done instead of seeking the limelight. The media is unlikely to give him the credit he deserves," another added.
HOLY SHIT: Within a single day, President Biden successfully brought together the heads of states from France, Germany, Italy, and the UK, who united to issue a collective statement endorsing and safeguarding Israel. This remarkable development warrants appreciation for President…
— Popular Liberal 🇺🇸 (@PopularLiberal) October 10, 2023
A True Leader will lead by his Actions and has the confidence to stand Alone, the courage to make tough decisions and the compassion to listen to the needs of others.
— Deep State Anthony🟧🟦🇺🇸 (@AnthonyJo) October 10, 2023
That’s our President Joe Biden 💙💙💙
Joe getting things done instead of seeking the limelight. The media is unlikely to give him the credit he deserves.
— sun’s out 🌻 (@HillckHill) October 10, 2023
US response to Hamas attacks
In response to the Hamas attacks, the Pentagon ordered the USS Gerald R Ford aircraft carrier strike group to the Eastern Mediterranean.
The Biden administration also briefed key Congressional leaders on the specific weapons Israel requires, including additional interceptors for the Iron Dome air defense system.
National Security Council Spokesman John Kirby reaffirmed the US' longstanding defense relationship with Israel and pledged support in replenishing their munitions.
Amid reports that Americans may be held hostage by Hamas in Gaza, President Biden directed his team to work closely with Israeli counterparts to address the crisis.
He expressed his commitment to assisting in hostage recovery efforts, underlining the importance of the situation.
Since the attack on Saturday, October 7, President Biden has held multiple conversations with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and also engaged with officials from the Palestinian Authority.