In his annual State of the Union address, US President Joe Biden delivered a strong message to Israel, urging its leadership to prioritize humanitarian assistance and refrain from using aid as a bargaining chip in the ongoing conflict with Hamas. Biden's remarks come amidst escalating tensions and a dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where the United Nations has warned of famine.

Biden emphasized the need to protect and save innocent lives, stating that humanitarian assistance cannot be sidelined or leveraged for political gain. He announced plans to establish a temporary pier in the Mediterranean to facilitate the delivery of aid into Gaza, underscoring the urgency of addressing the humanitarian crisis.

While acknowledging Israel's justification for its military response to Hamas' October 7 attack, Biden expressed deep concern over the devastating impact on the civilian population in Gaza. He described the situation as "heartbreaking" and reiterated his commitment to securing an immediate ceasefire.

Proposing a six-week ceasefire deal, Biden emphasized the importance of releasing hostages held by Hamas and alleviating the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. He called on Hamas to end the conflict and engage in dialogue towards a more enduring solution.

In addition to advocating for a ceasefire, Biden reiterated his support for a two-state solution, emphasizing the need for a Palestinian state alongside Israel. Despite his long-standing support for Israel, Biden underscored the importance of pursuing a resolution that ensures peace and stability for both Israelis and Palestinians.

Biden's remarks signal a shift in US policy towards the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, with a renewed focus on humanitarian concerns and a commitment to diplomatic efforts to end the violence. As the situation continues to evolve, the international community will be closely watching for progress towards a ceasefire and a lasting peace agreement.