"President Biden Calls for Humanitarian Pause in Israel-Hamas Conflict to Secure Hostage Release"

During a campaign event in Minnesota, US President Joe Biden responded to a woman in the audience who requested him to call for a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.

 In his reply, President Biden advocated for a "pause" in the fighting to facilitate the release of hostages. 

The president emphasized the importance of allowing time to secure the freedom of the 240 individuals held captive by Hamas. 

The White House later clarified that President Biden's reference to a "pause" pertained to humanitarian assistance as well.

 While the woman singing "ceasefire now" was escorted out by security, President Biden acknowledged the complexity of the situation for both Israelis and the wider Muslim community. 

He reiterated his longstanding support for a two-state solution and unequivocally labeled Hamas as a terrorist organization.