Administration of Joseph R. Biden, Jr., 2024

February 29, 2024

Israel-Hamas Conflict in Gaza, Palestinian Territories

Q. Do you expect a cease-fire by Monday, sir? Do you still expect a cease-fire is possible by Monday, sir?

The President. Hope springs eternal.

Q. And what isââ

The President. I was on the telephone with the people in the region. I'm stillâprobably not by Monday, but I'm hopeful.

[*At this point, several reporters began asking questions at once.*]

Civilian Deaths in Gaza, Palestinian Territories

Q. Do you know what happened in Gaza City? More than a hundred civilians were killed.

The President. I was justâwe're checking that out right now. But twoâthere's two competing versions of what happened. I don't have an answer yet.

Q. Are you worried that will complicate these negotiations?

The President. I know it will.

[*Several reporters asked questions at once.*]

In Vitro Fertilization

Q. Mr. President, the Alabama ruling. I want to ask you about the Catholic Church. The Catholic Church said that IVF is immoral and wrong because it destroys countless human embryos. What do you say to that?

The President. I don't agree with that position.

NOTE: The President spoke at 10:16 a.m. on the South Lawn at the White House prior to boarding Marine One.

Categories: Interviews With the News Media : Exchanges with reporters, White House. Locations: Washington, DC.

Subjects: Gaza, conflict with Israel; Gaza, humanitarian situation; In vitro fertilization and reproductive assistance services; Israel, military operations in Gaza; News media, Presidential interviews.

DCPD Number: DCPD202400144.

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