What's happening in Gaza is not genocide: Biden
The Hindu
President Biden defends Israel, rejects genocide claims, supports Israeli security, vows to defeat Hamas, and negotiate hostage release.
U.S. President Joe Biden strongly defended Israel on Monday, May 21, 2024, saying Israeli forces are not committing genocide in their military campaign against Hamas militants in Gaza in a rejection of criticism from pro-Palestinian protesters.
Also read: ICC seeks arrest warrants for Netanyahu, Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant for war crimes in Palestine; charges Hamas chief for Oct. 7 attack
"What's happening in Gaza is not genocide. We reject that," Mr. Biden said at a Jewish American Heritage Month event at the White House.
Mr. Biden has faced protests at many of his events around the country from pro-Palestinian advocates who have labeled him "Genocide Joe" for his steadfast support for Israel.
In remarks at the White House event, Mr. Biden stressed his belief that Israel was the victim dating back to the Oct. 7 attack on southern Israel by Hamas militants who killed 1,200 people and took hundreds of hostages.
He said U.S. support for the safety and security of Israelis is "ironclad."
"We stand with Israel to take out (Hamas leader Yahya) Sinwar and the rest of the butchers of Hamas. We want Hamas defeated. We're working with Israel to make that happen," he said.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar to attend G20 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in South Africa, strengthening India's global engagement.
New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters calls for a reset in relationship with Cook Islands over China agreements.
President Trump orders firing of all remaining U.S. attorneys nominated by Biden, citing politicization of Department of Justice.
Man convicted for throwing pipe bomb at former Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, sentenced to 10 years in prison.
Judge denies restraining order against Elon Musk and DOGE, citing lack of evidence for legal harm.
Brazil's former President Bolsonaro charged with coup attempt, poisoning plot, and murder plan after 2022 election defeat.
Declining marriages and population in China pose economic and social challenges, with government policies failing to address root causes.
DOGE cancels $21M fund for voter turnout in India, Trump criticizes decision due to India's high taxation rates.
The Hindu Morning Digest gives a select list of stories to start the day. Read the top news today on February 19, 2025
Marine experts respond to mass stranding of over 150 whales in Tasmania, facing challenges in rescue efforts.
Analysis of Indian immigrants deported from the U.S. in 2025, asylum seekers, illegal agents, and visa overstays trends.
Border arrests plummeted in January due to Trump's immigration policies, reaching the lowest point since May 2020.
Iranian Foreign Minister appeals for Indian nurse on death row in Yemen, diplomatic efforts ongoing, complex resolution due to regional instability.