MINNEAPOLIS, Nov 2: In a campaign speech delivered in Minneapolis, U.S. President Joe Biden called for a “pause” in the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, marking a notable shift in his stance on the situation. The president was addressing a gathering of around 200 people when he was interrupted by a woman who identified herself as a rabbi and implored him to call for an immediate ceasefire.
The rabbi’s emotional plea, saying, “I need you to call for a ceasefire right now,” prompted a response from President Biden. In his reply, he stated, “I think we need a pause,” highlighting that such a pause would allow for the release of prisoners held by Hamas and the delivery of crucial humanitarian aid. White House officials later clarified that the term “prisoners” referred to hostages held by Hamas, not individuals detained for criminal reasons.
The Israel-Hamas conflict erupted after the October 7 attacks by Hamas, which resulted in the tragic loss of 1,400 lives and the taking of 239 people as hostages. Israel has responded with a sustained bombing campaign in Gaza, which has been ongoing for weeks. The toll on the Gaza Strip has been severe, with the Hamas-run health ministry reporting that more than 8,700 people have lost their lives since the beginning of Israel’s retaliatory actions.
President Biden had initially voiced strong support for Israel but has gradually adjusted his position as the humanitarian crisis in Gaza deepens and civilian casualties mount. His call for a pause indicates a subtle shift in tone from the White House, which had previously refrained from involving itself in how Israel, a close ally, conducted its military operations.
The heckler’s interjection at the campaign fundraiser was met with President Biden acknowledging the complexity of the Israel-Hamas issue, recognizing the strong emotions surrounding it. He underscored his long-standing support for a two-state solution in the region.
During the ongoing conflict, President Biden had maintained that Hamas is a terrorist organization, emphasizing the need to address the matter from that perspective.
The Gaza Strip has endured extensive damage, with numerous Palestinian casualties, including a significant number of children, amid the conflict. The humanitarian situation in the region has deteriorated rapidly, prompting international concerns and calls for a ceasefire.
Protesters have also expressed their grievances in recent weeks, interrupting congressional hearings and criticizing American officials for what they describe as “genocide” against Palestinians in Gaza.
As the conflict continues to unfold, President Biden’s call for a “pause” indicates a growing global demand for a cessation of hostilities and a focus on humanitarian relief in the embattled Gaza Strip.
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