US President Joe Biden will visit war-hit Israel on Wednesday (October 18, 2023) to show support for the country amid ongoing conflict with the Hamas group.
"President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. will travel to Israel on Wednesday, October 18, to demonstrate his steadfast support for Israel in the face of Hamas’s brutal terrorist attack and to consult on next steps," read a statement issued by the White House.
"President Biden will then travel to Amman, Jordan, where he will meet with his Majesty King Abdullah, Egyptian President Sisi, and Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas," the statement said.
"He will reiterate that Hamas does not stand for the Palestinian people’s right to dignity and self-determination and discuss the humanitarian needs of civilians in Gaza," the statement said.
Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Hamas refuted reports of a cease-fire in Gaza to allow humanitarian aid and stranded foreigners to leave through the Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt as the conflict entered its 10th day on Monday.
"There is currently no cease-fire and humanitarian aid in Gaza in return for removing foreigners," a statement from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said.
Hamas official Izzat El Reshiq, as reported by Reuters, also dismissed claims of the Rafah border crossing opening or any temporary cease-fire.
The Palestinian militant group Hamas on October 7 carried out a surprise rocket attack on Israel from the Gaza Strip, resulting in Israel's declaration of war and the launch of counter-attacks.
The number of Palestinian deaths has crossed 2,700 with more than 9,600 injuries reported, according to the Gaza-based Health Ministry. More than 1,400 Israelis have died since the Hamas assault began. Israel said 289 of its soldiers have been killed.
