Biden pledges in State of the Union not to rest until hostages returned home

Biden turns his State of the Union speech to the war in Gaza.

“I know the last five months have been gut-wrenching for so many people, for the Israeli people, the Palestinian people, and so many here in America,” he says.

“This crisis began on October 7th with a massacre by the terrorist group Hamas. One-thousand and two hundred innocent people women and girls men and boys slaughtered, many enduring sexual violence. The deadliest day for the Jewish people since the Holocaust. Two-hundred and fifty hostages taken,” Biden says, taking a minute to recognize the relatives of American hostages in the congressional chamber for the speech.

“I pledge to all the families that we will not rest until we bring their loved ones home,” he says.

“Israel has a right to go after Hamas,” Biden asserts.

“Hamas could end this conflict today by releasing the hostages, laying down arms, and surrendering those responsible for October 7th.”

“We’ve been working non-stop to establish an immediate ceasefire that would last for at least six weeks,” Biden says.

“It would get the hostages home, ease the intolerable humanitarian crisis, and build toward something more enduring.”