The President also reiterated his commitment to pursuing a two-state solution to the long-standing Israel-Palestinian conflict.

Addressing the ongoing violence, Biden denounced the actions of "extremist settlers," describing their attacks as exacerbating an already volatile situation in the Middle East following the Oct. 7 attacks by Hamas on Israel. He emphasized the need for accountability and an immediate cessation of such violence.

The President made his remarks alongside Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who was on a state visit to Washington, D.C.

Reports indicate that settler violence against Palestinians has escalated since the Hamas attack, resulting in the loss of Palestinian lives, according to Palestinian authorities. Human rights groups have reported incidents such as the burning of cars and attacks on Bedouin communities, leading to their forced evacuation from the area.

The West Bank Protection Consortium, comprised of non-governmental organizations and donor countries, including the European Union, has reported that numerous Palestinians have been forcibly displaced in the West Bank due to settler violence since October 7. This adds to the already substantial number of over 1,100 displaced individuals since 2022.

With the Israeli military intensifying its pursuit of Palestinian militants in response to the Hamas attack, violence in the West Bank has reached alarming levels. This development not only poses the risk of escalating the ongoing conflict but also places additional pressure on the internationally recognized Palestinian Authority, which is responsible for administering parts of the West Bank and faces significant unpopularity due to its cooperation with Israel on security matters.

While denouncing the brutality of the Hamas attack that claimed the lives of 1,400 Israelis, President Biden expressed his conviction that Hamas was partly driven by a desire to undermine the U.S.-led efforts to normalize Israeli relations with Arab nations, including Saudi Arabia.

Biden stressed the importance of finding a sustainable resolution to the conflict and emphasized the need for Israelis and Palestinians, along with their partners, to work towards a two-state solution. He asserted that both parties deserve to live side by side in safety, dignity, and peace, and that a clear vision for the future should be established once the current crisis subsides.

Turning his attention towards minimizing civilian casualties, President Biden urged Israel to proceed with caution in its response, particularly with regards to retaliatory strikes. He emphasized the need for precision and targeting those responsible for escalating the conflict.

Regarding the issue of a potential ground invasion into Gaza, the President stated that although he has not directly demanded assurances from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, he has underscored the importance of ensuring the safe release of hostages. Biden acknowledged that the decision ultimately rests with Israeli authorities, while reiterating the imperative of protecting innocent lives.

The White House has reported that approximately 10 Americans remain unaccounted for amidst the Israel-Hamas war.