Biden Urges Stronger Pressure on Hamas for Gaza Ceasefire at G20

U.S. President Joe Biden, who is nearing the end of his term, called on October 18 (local time) for increased pressure on Hamas to achieve a ceasefire in the war between Israel and Hamas.

According to major foreign media on the day, President Biden stated in his opening speech at the G20 summit held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, "I ask everyone here to increase pressure on Hamas, which is currently refusing to agree to a ceasefire."

President Joe Biden of the United States AP Yonhap News

He also said, "Israel has the right to defend itself against the worst massacre of Jews since the Holocaust (the Hamas terrorist attack on October 7 last year)," but emphasized, "However, how it defends itself is very important," urging to reduce civilian casualties in the Gaza Strip.

President Biden stated, "We will continue efforts to ensure Israel's security and the release of hostages held by Hamas, and to accelerate a ceasefire agreement that will end the suffering of Palestinian residents and children."