Biden Expresses Shock and Horror at Reports of Toddlers and Babies Found Decapitated in Kfar Aza, Israel

President Joe Biden has expressed shock and horror at the violence of the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, with reports of toddlers and babies found with their heads decapitated in Kfar Aza, a kibbutz in southern Israel.

In remarks to Jewish community leaders Wednesday, Biden said he never expected to see and have confirmed pictures of terrorists beheading children. He also discussed how the U.S. is sending experts to “advise and assist” in the conflict.

White House national security spokesman John Kirby said Wednesday that a “handful” of U.S. citizens are among the estimated 150 hostages captured by Hamas militants during their shocking weekend assault on Israel.

The number of U.S. citizens confirmed to have been killed in the Israel-Hamas war has risen to at least 22 with at least 17 more Americans unaccounted for, the State Department said Wednesday. That’s an increase in the death toll from 14 the day before, in a war that has already claimed more than 2,200 lives on both sides.

The Biden administration has expressed its support for Israel amid the conflict, and is working to free American hostages. The president has also called for an immediate ceasefire, and has urged both sides to de-escalate the situation and return to the negotiating table.