Asked when the Biden administration might feel compelled to call for a ceasefire – something it has so far declined to do – the senior administration official said that given the scale and nature of Hamas’ attacks on Israel on October 7, a ceasefire was not appropriate.
“A terrorist group takes 200 hostages and kills 1,400 people and is hiding under tunnels, including the leaders – ceasefire is not really the word … to use,” the official told CNN.
Neither he nor anyone in his administration has come close to criticizing how Israel is conducting its offensive.
“I understand the emotion,” Biden said as he continued his remarks after the protester was led out of the room.
The official said Friday that there is “just as intense a process ongoing” to secure the safe release of hostages held by Hamas in Gaza.
Persons:
Biden, we’ve, “, Joe Biden, Israel, ” Biden, Biden’s, ”
Organizations:
CNN, Hamas, Israel Defense Forces, United Nations
Locations:
Israel, Gaza, Northern Gaza, Minneapolis, Rafah