What Did Joe Biden Do Today?
Weekend Recap, April 13-14, 2024
President Biden strongly condemned the extensive air attacks launched by Iran and its proxies from Yemen, Syria, and Iraq against Israel's military facilities. In response, the U.S. deployed aircraft and ballistic missile defense destroyers to assist Israel, which successfully intercepted most of the threats, demonstrating robust defense capabilities.
The President has reassured Prime Minister Netanyahu of the U.S.'s steadfast support for Israel's security. He plans to discuss a coordinated response with G7 leaders and maintain close communication with regional allies to ensure preparedness against any further threats.
The G7 leaders have also strongly condemned Iran's attack on Israel, labeling it as direct and unprecedented. This attack involved hundreds of drones and missiles, but Israel successfully defended itself with assistance from its partners. The G7 expressed their solidarity and support for Israel, committing to its security.
The leaders described Iran's actions as further destabilizing the region and cautioned that such actions risk triggering uncontrollable regional escalation. They emphasized the need to stabilize the situation and prevent further escalation, calling for Iran and its proxies to stop their attacks. The G7 also expressed readiness to take additional measures if necessary.
Additionally, the G7 intends to enhance cooperation to resolve the crisis in Gaza. Their goals include working toward an immediate and sustainable ceasefire, securing the release of hostages held by Hamas, and increasing humanitarian assistance to Palestinians in need.
President Biden spoke with King Abdullah II of Jordan regarding escalating events in the Middle East. He strongly condemned Iran's attack, which posed a threat to Jordan and its citizens. Both leaders agreed to stay closely connected as they continue to monitor the situation. Additionally, they discussed the Gaza crisis, emphasizing their commitment to enhancing humanitarian aid there and seeking a resolution to end the crisis promptly.
President Biden has officially declared a major disaster in California following severe winter storms, tornadoes, flooding, landslides, and mudslides that occurred from January 31 to February 9, 2024. This declaration activates federal aid to support state, tribal, and local recovery efforts. Federal funding will help cover emergency work and repairs in affected counties, including Butte, Glenn, Los Angeles, Monterey, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, Santa Cruz, Sutter, and Ventura. Additionally, funding is available for hazard mitigation measures throughout the state. Andrew F. Grant of FEMA will oversee these recovery operations, and further assistance may follow pending additional damage assessments.
The President has also declared a major disaster in Oregon following severe winter storms and other natural events from January 10-22, 2024. This declaration enables federal aid to support state, tribal, and local recovery efforts in several affected counties and the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians. The assistance, provided on a cost-sharing basis, will aid in emergency repairs and hazard mitigation. Yolanda J. Jackson of FEMA will oversee the recovery operations. Further assistance may be granted pending additional damage assessments.
President Biden meets with his national security team regarding Iran’s drone attack against Israel
