President Joe Biden delivered a swift and stern response on Thursday, October 12, to former President Donald Trump’s contentious remarks, in which he labeled Hezbollah as “very smart” amidst a severe escalation of violence in Israel. The comments were made in Florida, mere days following the onset of terrorist attacks against Israel by Hamas.
While Trump appreciated Hezbollah’s strategic acumen – a view he believes is underappreciated by the media – President Biden displayed an unequivocal stance of solidarity with Israel. He utilized X, the platform previously known as Twitter, to reiterate the unshakeable support of the United States for the nation under assault.
Biden reposted Trump’s video, where the latter is seen lauding the terrorists, followed by a strong rebuke that there is absolutely no fitting occasion to applaud terrorists aiming to cause harm to a nation. His message was clear: “Our nation’s support for Israel is resolute and unwavering. And the right time to praise the terrorists who seek to destroy them is never.”
According to The Guardian, Biden’s team was unreservedly vocal in condemning Trump’s rhetoric. Kevin Munoz, speaking for the Biden campaign, branded Trump’s language as “sickening,” raising questions about his aptitude for global leadership. Meanwhile, Andrew Bates, Deputy Press Secretary at the White House, queried the logic of lauding an Iran-backed terrorist group as “smart,” highlighting the duty of the U.S. to dissuade terrorists from attacking allies like Israel, particularly during one of its deadliest terrorist attacks.
Jamie Harrison, the DNC chairman, was unambiguous in his assessment, denouncing Trump’s words as “disgusting, depraved, and dangerous.” He drew a distinct comparison between Trump’s conduct and President Biden’s staunch condemnation of terrorist acts and unwavering backing of Israel.
Throughout the attack crisis in Israel, President Biden has been vocal in his disapproval of the violence, categorically condemning the brutal acts as “abhorrent.” His administration has mobilized to back Israel by reallocating military assets to the area and providing interceptors and munitions following the assaults.
In a move that highlights the severity of the situation, Secretary of State Antony Blinken traveled to Israel to give remarks alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
The attacks have exacted a horrifying toll, with over 1,000 Israelis and hundreds of Palestinians losing their lives in the escalating conflict. Amongst the tragic loss of life are at least 25 Americans, a figure confirmed by Secretary Blinken.
President Biden’s firm commitment to Israel and decisive denunciation of terrorism amid this crisis stand out prominently against a global backdrop of conflict and violence, presenting a stark contrast in leadership compared to his predecessor, particularly under scrutiny in these tumultuous times.
