Joe Biden Condemns Rise Of Antisemitism, Warns Of People “Already Forgetting” Hamas’ Attack On Israel

Joe Biden sharply condemned the rise of antisemitism in the United States, including incidents that have played out on college campuses amid pro-Palestinian protests.

Speaking at a Capitol Hill event to commemorate Holocaust Remembrance Day, Biden also warned that “people are already forgetting” that it was Hamas “that unleashed this terror” in the attack on Israel on Oct. 7.

“It was Hamas who brutalized Israelis. It was Hamas who took and continues to hold hostages,” Biden said. “I have not forgotten nor have you, and we will not forget.”

Biden’s comments underscored his continued commitment to Israel even as he pointed out that the United States has had sharp disagreements, including the way that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has carried out his counter-offensive in Gaza. Biden’s support has put him at odds with some in his party as well as many of the protesters on college campuses, some of whom have referred to him as “genocide Joe.”

As he did last week, Biden addressed the demonstrations that have closed some college campuses and led to the cancellation of public graduation ceremonies at Columbia and other universities.

“There is no place on any campus in America, any place in America, for antisemitism or hate speech or threats of violence of any kind,” Biden said.

He added, “Whether against Jews or anyone else, violent attacks, destroying property is not peaceful protest. It’s against the law, and we are not a lawless country. We are a civil society. We uphold the law, and no one should have to hide or be brave just to be themselves.”