Biden pledges support for Israel, says the world is watching

President Joe Biden reiterated in a speech on Saturday that the U.S. stands behind Israel and warned enemies of the Jewish state that now is not the time to be hostile towards Israel. 

"There's never a justification for terrorist attacks," Biden said during his speech. "My administration's support for Israel's security is rock solid. Let me say this as clearly as I can: This is not a moment for any party hostile towards Israel to exploit these attacks to seek advantage. The world is watching."

The president emphasized in a statement earlier in the day that Israel has a right to exist and that he is in touch with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Palestinian terrorists in Gaza launched an attack against Israel on Saturday with rockets and ground forces, inflicting significant casualties. Netanyahu declared war following the attack. 

Israel's military confirmed that Hamas is holding Israeli soldiers and civilians captive in Gaza, according to reports. 

The death toll of Israelis has risen to 200 with hundreds more wounded, according to CBS.