President Biden to Address Unprecedented Attacks on Israel by Hamas, Death Toll Expected to Rise

On Tuesday, President Joe Biden is set to deliver remarks on the Hamas militant group’s unprecedented attacks on Israel that took place over the weekend. The death toll in Hamas-run Gaza is at least 765, according to the Palestinian Health Ministry, though it is expected to rise as Israel continues to launch airstrikes across the Gaza Strip.

National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby was asked by CNN’s Jake Tapper about images from the region of kidnapped children and women who had been abducted and likely raped, describing the horrifying “death and destruction.” Kirby struggled to respond, choking up. “It’s very difficult to look at these images, Jake, and the human cost,” he said. Tapper told him there was “nothing to say sorry for.” Kirby replied, “Yeah, it’s difficult, and I apologize.”

President Biden said in a statement Monday that at least 11 Americans were killed in the attacks. Israeli authorities said more than 100 people are being held captive by Hamas, which has long been designated a terrorist organization by the United States.

The remarks from the president come after the Palestinian group launched its surprise assault on Israel early Saturday morning, which the Israel Defense Forces has since said left at least 900 dead and roughly 2,700 wounded. The death toll is expected to rise as the conflict continues.

The situation in the region is dire, and President Biden’s remarks on Tuesday will be closely watched by the international community. The United States has long been a strong ally of Israel, and the president’s words will likely be seen as a sign of support for the nation.