Political Leaders Offer Support to Israel After Hamas Attack
In a surprise early-morning attack by Hamas militants, political leaders in the U.S. have vowed to support Israel. The attack has resulted in the deaths of at least 70 people in Israel, with hundreds more injured. The multi-front attack began with rocket fire, followed by an invasion by Hamas members from Gaza. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in a televised address, declared that the country is “at war” and promised that the militants will face an unprecedented price. In response, nearly 200 people have reportedly died in Palestine, along with numerous injuries, according to the Associated Press.
President Joe Biden contacted Netanyahu on Saturday morning. The Israeli president stated that Biden emphasized the U.S.’s stance alongside Israel and its full support for the country’s right to self-defense. Netanyahu characterized Biden’s support as “unreserved.” The White House informed CBS News that Biden, who recently met with Netanyahu, has been briefed on the situation and will continue to be updated as officials maintain close contact with their Israeli counterparts.
Police officers were seen evacuating a woman and child from a site hit by a rocket fired from Gaza in Ashkelon, southern Israel on Saturday, October 7, 2023. (Image credit: Tsafrir Abayov / AP)
National Security Council spokesperson Adrienne Watson released a statement condemning the unprovoked attacks and expressing unwavering support for Israel on behalf of the U.S. government. Watson also stated that national security adviser Jake Sullivan had been in contact with Israeli national security adviser Tzachi Hanegbi.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken also issued a statement condemning the attacks by Hamas terrorists against Israel, emphasizing that there is never any justification for terrorism. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin stated that the Department of Defense will work to ensure that Israel has the necessary resources to defend itself and protect civilians from indiscriminate violence and terrorism.
Both political parties’ leaders have released statements regarding the situation. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, Democrat of New York, called the attacks “absolutely horrific” and affirmed the U.S.’s unwavering support for Israel’s right to defend itself. Rep. Patrick McHenry, Republican of North Carolina, referred to Israel as the U.S.’s most sacred ally and expressed full support for the Israeli government’s right to defend its citizens. Senator Ben Cardin, Democrat of Maryland, and Senator Mark Warner, Democrat of Virginia, also condemned the attacks and emphasized their commitment to ensuring that Israel has the necessary support and resources to defend itself.
Various candidates vying for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination have also spoken out against the attack. Former President Donald Trump described the attacks as a disgrace and criticized President Biden’s Middle East policies. Nikki Haley called Hamas a bloodthirsty terrorist organization that is determined to kill innocent lives. Other candidates, such as Ron DeSantis and Mike Pence, echoed similar sentiments and urged the U.S. to stand with Israel.
Written by Kerry Breen, News Editor and Reporter for CBS News
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