Biden pledges to end Israeli war on Gaza and rally for democracy
As the DNC continues, themes of ending Gaza war and defending democracy resonate deeply among delegates
Muslim Network TV Desk
CHICAGO (MNTV) – President Joe Biden, during the opening night of the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, declared his commitment to ending the war in Gaza and reiterated the United States’ role in fostering Middle Eastern peace and security.
As he spoke to delegates and a national audience, his words reflected the ongoing urgency of international diplomacy and domestic political transformation.
Inside the convention hall, Biden articulated a multifaceted approach to the crisis.
“We are tirelessly working to prevent a wider war, to reunite hostages with their families, and to surge humanitarian aid into Gaza immediately,” he stated, outlining a vision to alleviate the suffering of Palestinian civilians and secure a ceasefire.
This commitment to peace came amidst the backdrop of a catastrophic conflict where over 40,000 Palestinians have reportedly lost their lives.
The convention appears not just a political event but a reflection of broader societal debates, as evidenced by the thousands of free-Palestine protesters outside the venue.
They voiced their dissent against U.S. support for Israel’s military actions, with chants of “Free, free Palestine” echoing through downtown Chicago.
This external unrest seeped into the convention dynamics when some attendees displayed a banner stating “Stop arming Israel,” prompting a spectrum of reactions from the crowd, ranging from supportive chants for Biden to disputes among the attendees.
Biden’s remarks also touched on recent diplomatic initiatives, noting a “bridging proposal” developed with Egypt and Qatar aimed at narrowing the gaps between Israel and Palestinian factions to facilitate a deal.
Despite these efforts, Palestinian resistance groups have criticized the proposal, viewing it as too aligned with Israeli conditions and insufficient for a lasting peace.
They particularly opposed ongoing Israeli control over strategic areas such as the Netzarim Junction and the Rafah crossing.
Addressing the complex geopolitical landscape, Biden emphasized a plan that promises to end hostilities through a three-phased approach including a cease-fire, a prisoner exchange, and ultimately, the reconstruction of Gaza.
“We have come closer to peace than any time since October 7,” Biden asserted, claiming his administration’s proactive stance in international negotiations.
Beyond the immediate concerns of war and peace, Biden’s speech at the DNC was also a rallying cry for American democracy.
Reflecting on his decision to not seek reelection, he passionately endorsed Kamala Harris as the Democratic nominee.
Harris, alongside Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, who she selected as her vice-presidential candidate, is poised to challenge former President Donald Trump in the upcoming elections.
Harris made a surprise appearance at the convention, expressing her resolve to unify and lead the nation forward.
“This November, we come together to declare with one voice that we are moving forward,” she proclaimed, setting the tone for her campaign.
She is scheduled to formally accept the nomination on the convention’s final day, marking a historic moment as she could become the first female president of the United States.
Prominent Democratic figures, including former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, also spoke at the convention, each highlighting the significance of the upcoming election and Biden’s legacy of dignity and competence.
Clinton praised Biden’s leadership, while Ocasio-Cortez’s presence energized the crowd, underscoring the party’s united front against Trump.
In his concluding remarks, Biden emphasized the critical nature of the forthcoming election.
“It’s that simple—and that serious. The power is in your hands. History is in your hands. America’s future is in your hands,” he declared, highlighting the stakes involved in preserving democracy and freedom in America.
As the DNC continues, the themes of ending the Gaza war and defending democracy resonate deeply, mirroring Biden’s dual focus on resolving international crises and bolstering democratic values at home.
These commitments reflect the broader challenges facing the U.S. as it navigates complex global dynamics and pivotal domestic transitions.