Key Takeaways:

• President Biden claims U.S. adversaries are weaker than four years ago, despite ongoing conflicts.
• He highlights support for Ukraine and Israel while facing criticism for military involvement.
• Biden discusses efforts to secure hostages held by Hamas and address humanitarian concerns in Gaza.
• Protests aimed at Biden erupted outside the State Department, accusing him of war crimes.

In a significant address at the State Department on January 13, outgoing President Joe Biden emphasized his administration's accomplishments in foreign policy, stating that U.S. adversaries are considerably weaker now than when he assumed office four years ago. This comes at a time when multiple international crises persist, particularly ongoing warfare in Ukraine and the Middle East.

Biden cited the U.S.'s unwavering support for Ukraine in the face of Russia's 2022 invasion and for Israel amid its military operations in Gaza against Hamas. "Compared to four years ago, America is stronger, our alliances are stronger, our adversaries and competitors are weaker," Biden stated, underlining his belief that the U.S. is "winning the worldwide competition". He maintained that this success has occurred without direct military confrontation by the U.S.

Negotiations are underway to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas and to facilitate humanitarian aid for the devastated population in Gaza. Biden noted, "So many innocent people have been killed, so many communities have been destroyed. Palestinian people deserve peace," as well as stating that both Israel and the Palestinian people deserve a chance for peace and security.¹

The ongoing violence has drawn severe international scrutiny, and Biden's administration has faced backlash for its military support of Israel. Many protesters outside the State Department labeled Biden a "war criminal," expressing their discontent towards U.S. involvement in the escalating violence in the region, where reports suggest over 46,000 Palestinians have died since the conflict reignited on October 7, 2023.²

Biden's remarks also touched upon the changing dynamics concerning Iran, arguing, "All told, Iran is weaker than it's been in decades," a claim that reflects U.S. efforts to support Israel against groups like Hamas and Hezbollah. He noted the impact of U.S. cooperation in military actions and the broader geopolitical landscape, including initiatives that have aimed to weaken Iranian influence.

Despite these assertions, Biden recognized the ongoing alignment of authoritarian states such as China, Russia, North Korea, and Iran, suggesting this coalition represents "weakness rather than strength." He firmly stated that U.S. commitment in Ukraine has thwarted Russian ambitions and reiterated his administration's stance against the potential military resurgence of China, suggesting that predictions of their economic superiority are increasingly misguided.

Biden reassured his audience that while significant challenges remain, he has prepared the ground for his successor, leaving behind "a very strong hand to play" in addressing global crises. As his term comes to a close on January 20, the outcome of current negotiations and conflicts will undoubtedly shape U.S. foreign policy going forward.

For more insights and details, you can read the full coverage from Reuters.