Biden condemns Israeli settler attacks

During a joint press conference with the Prime Minister of Australia, President Joe Biden addressed the escalating tensions in the Israel-Palestine conflict. He expressed concern over attacks on Palestinians by Israeli settlers in the West Bank, emphasizing the need for these actions to cease immediately. President Biden also called for a renewed commitment to the eventual creation of a Palestinian state once the current conflict between Israel and Hamas is resolved.

The statements were made during a state visit by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, highlighting the close diplomatic ties between the two countries. The visit occurred against the backdrop of increased hostilities between Israel and Hamas following a Hamas attack on Israelis earlier in the month.

President Biden acknowledged Israel's right and responsibility to respond to the attack, understanding the anger and hurt felt by the Israeli people. However, he stressed the importance of ending attacks on Palestinians in the West Bank and continuing humanitarian aid to Gaza.

Biden also emphasized that there is no return to the "status quo" and that a two-state solution remains a crucial part of the long-term vision for the region after the current crisis is resolved.