Biden: Gunfire in Gaza During Aid Distribution Will Complicate Talks

U.S. President Joe Biden stated on Thursday that the United States is verifying reports of Israel firing on people waiting for food aid in Gaza, and he believes that the bloody incident will complicate ceasefire discussions. Biden told reporters, "I know that this will happen." He added that a temporary ceasefire may not occur by Monday, as he had previously anticipated, but he remains optimistic. Health authorities in Gaza reported that 104 Palestinians were killed and 280 were injured after Israel opened fire on individuals waiting near Gaza City for assistance. One hospital reported receiving ten bodies and dozens of injured. Biden further stated, as he left the White House for a visit, "We are checking on that now... There are conflicting accounts of what happened. I do not have an answer right now." He also mentioned that a temporary ceasefire may not be expected by Monday, as he had earlier predicted, saying, "I spoke on the phone with people in the region. Maybe not by Monday, but I am optimistic."