Important warning from Biden to Israel before ground operation
Biden was a guest on CBS News' "60 Minutes" program. Making significant statements regarding the Hamas-Israel conflict during the program, Biden issued a warning to Israel, which is preparing for a ground operation.
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Emphasizing his belief that Israel will follow the "rules of war" in Gaza, Biden stated that this would ensure the innocent people of Gaza have access to food, water, and medicine.
When asked, "Would you support an Israeli occupation of Gaza at this point?" Biden replied, "I think it would be a big mistake. In my view, what happened in Gaza is about the extremist Hamas. It does not represent the entire Palestinian people. It would be a mistake for Israel to occupy Gaza. But going in and taking out the extremists, like Hezbollah and Hamas, is a necessary requirement."
Stating that Hamas must be completely eliminated but that there must be a path for a Palestinian authority and state, Biden said, "That path is a two-state solution, which has been US policy for decades. It would create an independent state for 5 million Palestinians alongside Israel."
SUPPORT FOR CREATING A HUMANITARIAN CORRIDOR
Stating that the US's priorities are not just rescuing American hostages, Biden said, "The most important thing right now is to end this brutality and hold those responsible accountable."
Regarding the possibility of US troops getting involved in a war in the Middle East, Biden said, "I don't think that's necessary," and recalled that he had promised to provide Israel with all the support it needs.
Regarding whether recent events have increased the security threat in the US, Biden noted that he held a meeting today with the US Department of Homeland Security and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and that security measures have been increased.
Regarding the creation of a humanitarian corridor for 2 million people in Gaza, Biden said, "We want that. My teams are talking (with Israel). We are also talking with Egypt to see how we can create a safe zone. To get the children and women in the region out. But it's not easy."
NO CLEAR EVIDENCE THAT IRAN IS INVOLVED IN THE ATTACK
When asked what his message to Hezbollah and Iran was, Biden emphasized, "Don't, don't, don't."
Pointing out that Iran and Hezbollah should avoid steps that would escalate tensions, Biden said there is no clear evidence that Iran was involved in the Hamas attack.
Noting that Iran consistently supports Hamas and Hezbollah, Biden said, "But did they know about the attack in advance? Did they help plan the attack? There is no evidence of that yet."