During his fundraising event, President Joe Biden made remarks indicating that Saudi Arabia and other Arab nations are prepared to fully acknowledge Israel. Biden stressed the importance of establishing a post-Gaza plan and reiterated his support for a two-state solution.
“I have been working with the Saudis and with all the other Arab countries, including Egypt and Jordan and Qatar. They are prepared to fully recognize Israel in a future deal,” Biden stated, emphasizing the need for progress toward a resolution.
He further elaborated on the necessity of a comprehensive approach, stating, “There has to be a post-Gaza plan, and there has to be a trade to a two-state solution. It does not have to occur today. It has to be a progression, and I think we can do that.”
Biden also addressed the urgent humanitarian situation in Gaza, emphasizing the need to provide essential supplies to Palestinians. However, he underscored Israel’s security concerns, acknowledging its precarious position.
The remarks were made during a discussion with fellow leaders at a fundraising event held at Radio City Music Hall in New York. The event aimed to showcase Democratic unity ahead of the upcoming general elections in 2024.
Despite efforts to demonstrate solidarity, the event faced disruptions from pro-Palestinian demonstrators, highlighting internal divisions within the party regarding Biden’s approach to the Israel-Hamas conflict and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Progressives, along with Muslim and Arab American groups, have urged the Biden administration to take a stronger stance against Israel’s military campaign in Gaza. Biden has been in talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, urging restraint and seeking alternative solutions to address the situation.
Efforts to schedule a high-level visit by an Israeli delegation to discuss options for de-escalation were hampered after Netanyahu canceled plans in response to the US abstaining from a UN Security Council resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.