Biden criticizes violent protests for Israel, refuses to deploy National Guard.
President Biden Speaks Out Against Anti-Israel Demonstrations
President Biden finally addressed the anti-Israel protests that have been causing turmoil on college campuses nationwide. He condemned the violence that has erupted, emphasizing the importance of maintaining order during protests.
“We are not an authoritarian nation where we silence people or squash dissent. The American people are heard. In fact, peaceful protest is in the best tradition of how Americans respond to consequential issues. But neither are we a lawless country. We’re a civil society and order must prevail,” Biden said at the White House.
Biden, under pressure from media and politicians, made these remarks on his way out of the White House. He made it clear that he would not be calling in the National Guard to control the protests.
“Throughout our history, we’ve often faced moments like this because we are a big, diverse, free-thinking, and freedom-loving nation. And moments like this are always those who rush in to score political points. But this isn’t a moment for politics. It’s a moment for clarity,” Biden expressed.
“So let me be clear… Violent protest is not protected. Peaceful protest is. It’s against the law when violence occurs. Destroying property is not a peaceful protest. It’s against the law. Vandalism. Trespassing. Breaking windows. Shutting down campuses. Forcing the cancellation of classes and graduations. None of this is a peaceful protest,” Biden continued. “Threatening people. Intimidating people. Instilling fear in people is not peaceful protest. It’s against the law.”
“Dissent is essential to democracy. But dissent must never lead to disorder or to denying the rights of others so students can finish a semester and their college education,” the president added.
At The George Washington University, a statue of a former president and Founding Father has been defaced with anti-Israel propaganda. At UCLA, police arrested around 130 protesters as they dismantled an anti-Israel encampment.
Biden also emphasized that there is no place for anti-Semitism or violence against Jewish students on any campus in America. He denounced hate speech and discrimination against various groups.
White House press secretary, Karine Jean-Pierre, assured that President Biden is closely monitoring the situation and has been updated regularly. She emphasized that Biden has been vocal about combating anti-Semitism.
Jean-Pierre clarified that Biden is not taking a neutral approach when it comes to addressing the conflict between supporters of Israel and Palestine.
In conclusion, President Biden’s firm stance against violence and disorder in protests highlights the delicate balance between free speech and maintaining order in a democratic society.
