President Joe Biden has taken a hard stance on the war in the Middle East, calling Hamas’ actions “sheer evil”.

The US president addressed media yesterday, condemning the actions of the militant force and putting full support behind Israel.

Biden says he has spoken to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu numerous times since the weekend attacks.

He compares Hamas’ actions to those of Isis, and leaves no room for misinterpretation.

“We must be crystal clear. We stand with Israel,” he says. “And we will make sure it has what it needs to take care of its citizens, defend itself and respond to this attack.”

Biden says Hamas does not stand for Palestinian peoples right to dignity and self-determination.