Biden Demands More Funds to Back Israel and Ukraine
President Joe Biden has called on Congress for extra cash to support Israel and Ukraine. Speaking from the Oval Office, he compared Hamas’ attacks on Israel to Vladimir Putin’s invasion of Ukraine. Biden warned both threats target democracy itself and stressed stopping them is vital for US security and world stability.
Hamas and Putin: Two Sides of the Same Threat
Biden hammered home the similarities between Hamas and Putin, saying both aim to destabilise neighbouring democracies. He warned that if the US pulls back, global chaos could follow. “American leadership and alliances are key to keeping the peace,” he insisted.
Violence Ramps Up Near US Forces
After Biden’s visit to Tel Aviv reaffirming support for Israel, tensions soared. Missile and drone strikes targeted the Ain al-Asad air base in Iraq, home to US troops. A US Navy warship in the Red Sea shot down three missiles and drones, the Pentagon confirmed.
Casualties Mount as Middle East Violence Spirals
In Gaza City, displaced Palestinians sheltering in the Church of Saint Porphyrius were hit by an Israeli air raid, causing casualties. Meanwhile, UK PM and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman pledged to work together to halt the violence and speed up humanitarian aid to the region.
Clashes also erupted along the Israeli-Lebanese border. A Lebanese civilian was killed in fierce exchanges between Israeli troops and Hezbollah fighters. UN peacekeepers rushed in to rescue stranded locals amid the fighting, highlighting the fragile state of peace in the area.
