Biden on Nassan’s death

President Biden released a statement following the death of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, who was killed in an Israeli airstrike in a Beirut suburb. "Hassan Nasrallah and the terrorist group he led, Hezbollah, were responsible for the deaths of hundreds of Americans over a four-decade reign of terror. His death in this strike is a measure of justice for his countless victims, including Americans, Israelis, and Lebanese civilians."

Biden reaffirmed U.S. support for Israel's right to defend itself against threats from groups like Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis, stating, "Yesterday, I directed my Secretary of Defense to bolster the defense posture of U.S. forces in the Middle East to deter aggression and reduce the risk of a broader regional conflict." He added that the long-term goal is to de-escalate tensions through diplomacy. "Our aim is to reduce conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon diplomatically. In Gaza, we are working on a UN Security Council-backed ceasefire and the release of hostages. In Lebanon, we are negotiating to ensure safe returns for people in Israel and southern Lebanon. It's time to finalize these agreements, eliminate threats to Israel, and stabilize the broader Middle East."

Biden also remarked that Nasrallah's alignment with Hamas and efforts to strengthen a northern front against Israel ultimately contributed to his downfall.