Biden condemns Hamas attack, demands release of American hostages

President Biden confirmed that Americans are among the hostages being held by Hamas, in addition to the 14 U.S. citizens who have been killed. He expressed support for Israel's right to respond forcefully to the attack and vowed to stand by the country. The Israeli military is preparing for a full-scale military initiative, potentially including a ground invasion of the Gaza Strip. Biden called Hamas's actions "pure, unadulterated evil" and emphasized the distinction between the terrorist organization and ordinary Palestinians seeking an independent state. The U.S. is working to prevent the conflict from escalating into a wider war in the Middle East.