U.S. President Joe Biden stated on Friday that the Democratic Party still supports Israel and is praying for the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas to hold. Biden added in a press conference at the White House that a two-state solution is the only remedy for the conflict between the two parties, and he pledged to gather a significant aid package with other countries to contribute to the reconstruction of Gaza.
Biden, whose administration worked behind the scenes for days to achieve the ceasefire, noted that aid designated for the region would be provided in coordination with the Palestinian Authority, which opposes Hamas in the occupied West Bank, to ensure that the group cannot resupply its military arsenal.
Israel and Hamas ended an 11-day conflict on Friday that resulted in the deaths of 248 individuals and injured 1,900. Humanitarian aid officials say that rebuilding Gaza will take years and cost hundreds of millions of dollars.
Biden called for an end to clashes between radical elements from both sides and emphasized the necessity of ensuring the security of Palestinians in the West Bank and assisting residents of Gaza. He also asserted the need for equality in the treatment of Israeli citizens, whether Jewish or Arab.
Biden stated that Palestinians should also recognize Israel's right to exist. He explained to reporters during a press conference with South Korean President Moon Jae-in, "Peace will not be achieved until the region explicitly states that it recognizes Israel's right to exist as an independent Jewish state."
Biden refrained from revealing details of his discussions with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu but expressed belief that Netanyahu would uphold the ceasefire. The U.S. President said, "I pray for the ceasefire to hold. I believe what he (Netanyahu) told me. He has never gone back on his word to me before."
