US President Joe Biden noted in his State of the Union address that the crisis in Gaza started when Hamas launched its attack on Israel on October 7.

Turning to the families of hostages who are still being held in Gaza, some of whom were present in the chamber, he said, “I pledge to all the families that we will not rest until we bring all of your loved ones home.”

Biden stressed that Israel has the right to go after Hamas but “has an added burden” since Hamas hides behind civilians.