During a Holocaust remembrance ceremony at the Capitol, hosted by the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum, President Joe Biden condemned the rise of antisemitism both in the U.S. and globally following the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel. Speaking forcefully, Biden decried how antisemitism "continues to lie deep in the hearts of too many people in the world," stressing that there's no place in America for such hatred or threats of violence. He emphasized that "we're not a lawless country—we are a civil society."

His remarks came as pro-Palestinian protests erupted across U.S. college campuses. Many demonstrators demand that institutions sever ties with companies supporting Israel, while others aim to raise awareness about the destruction and displacement in Gaza, where 80% of the 2.3 million residents have been forced from their homes. Hospitals, mosques, apartments, and schools have been devastated, and the death toll has surpassed 34,500, according to local health officials.

This political environment has challenged Biden, as younger voters have criticized his strong support for Israel. He seeks to balance his firm stance with concerns over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

Despite Hamas agreeing to an Egyptian-Qatari cease-fire plan, Israel dismissed the terms as insufficient and continued its assault on Rafah. On Tuesday, Israeli forces secured the Palestinian side of the Rafah border crossing, a crucial route for aid into Gaza and for civilians attempting to flee into Egypt. The crossing's capture underscores Israel's resolve to continue its offensive while limiting aid entry and civilian evacuation.