In a recent interview, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre addressed concerns raised by Black progressives regarding the Biden administration’s actions in Gaza.
During the sit down with The Root’s digital show, The 411, Jean-Pierre touched on President Biden’s leadership style, highlighting his experience, compassion, and understanding of the challenges faced by the American people.
Jean-Pierre defended the administration’s stance on the conflict, stating that President Biden has been unequivocal in supporting Israel’s efforts to target Hamas. She stressed that the Biden administration believes in the need for Israel to defend itself.
She said:
“This is a President that leads with experience, heart, and understands what the American people are going through. He’s been very clear about this moment we’re in, in supporting Israel to continue to go after Hamas so that they can defend themselves.”
She expressed regret for any innocent lives lost during the conflict, attributing the casualties to Hamas’s actions and their apparent willingness to endanger civilians.
Jean-Pierre asserted that Hamas has the power to end the conflict by surrendering and choosing to stop putting innocent lives at risk.
Following the interview, a U.S.-brokered deal was announced, resulting in a four-day pause in fighting between Israel and Hamas. As part of the agreement, Hamas agreed to release 50 of the approximately 240 hostages it held.
When questioned about the political implications of the Biden administration’s actions in Israel, Jean-Pierre cited the Hatch Act, preventing her from delving into specific political considerations.
However, she emphasized that the administration is focused on its work and delivering for the American people rather than being preoccupied with polling data.
The insightful discussion shed light on the Biden administration’s perspective on the Gaza conflict and its commitment to supporting Israel’s efforts against Hamas.
Prominent Black progressive leaders have spent the last month urging a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip.
Many of them have criticized the administration’s response to the crisis — questioning how the White House can continue to back the actions of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Since the Oct 7 terrorist attack, which killed 1,200 people, Israel’s bombing campaign in Gaza has killed over 11,000 Palestinians, including over 5,350 children.
