President Joe Biden is set to deliver an address to the nation from the Oval Office on Thursday, focusing on the ongoing conflicts in Israel and Ukraine. The White House spokesperson, Karine Jean-Pierre, announced that the speech will be broadcast at 8 p.m. Eastern time on Thursday. Oval Office addresses are rare and typically reserved for major crises.
This address demonstrates the United States’ deep investment in the outcome of Israel’s war with Hamas. In the past, President George W. Bush used the Oval Office to announce the intention to invade Iraq, President Barack Obama addressed a deadly mass shooting, and President Donald Trump announced measures to combat the COVID-19 pandemic.
During his visit to Israel on Wednesday, President Biden secured an agreement to allow the transfer of humanitarian aid into Gaza, which is controlled by Hamas. He urged Israelis to learn from the US experience after the September 11 terrorist attacks, emphasizing the importance of seeking justice without being consumed by rage.
One of President Biden’s main objectives is to gain congressional funding for US defense assistance to Israel, as it deals with the aftermath of the deadly Hamas attack on October 7. Additionally, the President wants to support Ukraine as it seeks to oust Russian invaders.
While there is widespread support for Israel funding in Congress, the Republicans have shown growing opposition to additional funding for Ukraine. Congress remains deadlocked, as Republicans have yet to replace Kevin McCarthy as speaker after his ouster two weeks ago. Ohio’s Jim Jordan, the latest Republican seeking the speakership, has stated that he would not advance funding for Ukraine.
The speech by President Biden will likely shed light on the administration’s plans for addressing these conflicts and providing support to both Israel and Ukraine. It signifies the seriousness of the situations and the United States’ commitment to finding resolutions and facilitating justice.