In a surprising moment at the White House Tuesday, President Joe Biden left reporters scratching their heads with an unexpected joke.
During a meeting with Israeli President Isaac Herzog, Biden addressed questions on high-stakes issues including the escalating conflict in Lebanon, humanitarian challenges in Gaza, and the American hostages held by Hamas.
When asked by Neria Kraus, a reporter, whether he anticipated reaching a deal to secure the hostages’ release by the end of his term, Biden deflected the question with a remark about the room’s bustling media presence.
“Do you think you can get hit in the head by the camera behind you?” Biden responded, directing attention to the cameramen surrounding them.
WATCH:
I asked President Biden if he thinks that he can get a hostage deal done by the end of his term. He answered, commenting on the number of cameramen in the room: “do you think that you can get hit in the head by the camera behind you?” pic.twitter.com/B3DCJoHdaw
— Neria Kraus (@NeriaKraus) November 12, 2024
Biden and Herzog’s meeting comes at a critical time, as violence in the region continues and diplomatic efforts to alleviate the situation grow more pressing. The hostages’ situation has weighed heavily on the administration, with Biden previously committing to prioritize their release amid broader regional tensions.
After the meeting, Herzog said that the Biden administration is dedicated to bolstering Israel’s security before his presidency concludes on January 20.
REACTIONS:
Are we still pretending this man is sane enough to lead this country?
— Michael J. Morrison (@OfficeOfMike) November 12, 2024
Threatening the press.
— Tim Young (@TimRunsHisMouth) November 12, 2024
Joe Biden is a terrible man
— Paul A. Szypula (@Bubblebathgirl) November 12, 2024
He’s still in shock. pic.twitter.com/HCTcJGNXVl
— joe miller (@joemill37087868) November 12, 2024
Very weird dude.
— Tacticool surrection (@tactictwitorist) November 12, 2024
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