Biden shifts Gaza strategy in State of the Union

President Joe Biden delivered his energetic State of the Union address, potentially his last before the reelection campaign against former President Donald Trump. The speech was delayed by pro-Palestinian demonstrators calling for an end to Israel's actions in Gaza. Biden announced an emergency mission to establish a temporary pier in Gaza to provide humanitarian aid. He proposed a six-week ceasefire between Israel and Hamas and emphasized the need for a two-state solution for long-term stability. Biden mentioned having a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Good evening. If I were smart, I'd go home now. President Joe Biden was energetic and punchy throughout his third State of the Union address. It may also be his last, as Biden enters the thick of his reelection campaign against former President Donald Trump. The speech was delayed by pro-Palestinian demonstrators who flooded Pennsylvania Avenue between the White House and the Capitol building, calling for an end to Israel's bombardment and blockade of Gaza. Biden has expressed continued support of Israel since October 7th, but the president used his address to mark a shift towards the de-escalation of war. Tonight, I'm directing the U.S. military to lead an emergency mission to establish a temporary pier in the Mediterranean on the coast of Gaza that can receive large shipments carrying food, water, medicine and temporary shelters. No U.S. boots will be on the ground. A temporary pier will enable a massive increase in the amount of humanitarian assistance getting into Gaza every day. The Biden administration is proposing a six-week ceasefire between Israel and Hamas to allow this aid to reach nearly two million Gazans. On the long-term stability of the region, Biden spoke to the leadership of Israel directly. As you look to the future, the only real solution to the situation is a two-state solution over time. Making his way through the crowd after his speech, Biden was caught with his mic still on saying that he needed to have a, quote, come-to-Jesus meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. For WMUC News, I'm Kayleigh Fox Shannon.