Biden Says Israel’s Military Response in Gaza ‘Over the Top’

President Joe Biden says he is “pushing very hard” to secure a temporary ceasefire.

President Joe Biden delivers remarks in the Diplomatic Reception Room of the White House on February 8, 2024 in Washington, DC. Biden addressed the Special Counsel's report on his handling of classified material, and the status of the war in Gaza. Photo by Nathan Howard/Getty Images

President Joe Biden has called Israel’s response in Gaza “over the top” and said he had pushed for a temporary ceasefire in the conflict to allow the release of hostages held by Hamas.

“I’m of the view, as you know, that the conduct of the response in the Gaza Strip has been over the top,” President Biden told reporters at the White House on Thursday.