US President Joe Biden told CBS News that removing Hamas extremists is "necessary," but reoccupying Gaza would be a "big mistake". Biden said Israel has the right to respond to the terrorist group's actions and that "Hamas is a bunch of cowards. They’re hiding behind the civilians." He agreed that invading Gaza to "take out the extremists" is a "necessary requirement." The president said he did not think Israel would be open to pursuing a two-state solution currently but that a Palestinian state and Palestinian authority are important. He expressed hope that Israeli forces would minimize civilian casualties in Gaza. Biden is reportedly considering a solidarity trip to Israel in the coming days.