B-52’s Canceled at State Dinner as White House Shows Solidarity with Israel in Conflict with Hamas

The White House canceled the performance of the B-52’s, a new wave band, at the state dinner for Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. The change was made to show respect for those who are “suffering and grieving” because of the Israel-Hamas war, First Lady Jill Biden said on Tuesday, according to Associated Press. Instead of the band, the Marine band and the Army and Air Force Strolling Strings played instrumental music at the event.

“We hope that this dinner offers some comfort, reassurance and healing, as our partnerships and relationships with our allies are very important, especially in these chaotic times,” Jill Biden said. She did not directly mention the violent conflict between Israel and Hamas, which started on Oct. 7 when Hamas attacked Israel, killing about 1,400 people and capturing 200 others, including Americans. Israel responded with an air campaign, and more than 4,300 Palestinians have died, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry. On Friday, Hamas freed two American hostages, Judith and Natalie Raanan, at the Gaza border with the help of the Red Cross. In a joint statement from the United States and Australia, released today before the dinner, President Joe Biden and Prime Minister Albanese expressed their support for Israel. “We stand by Israel as it defends itself and its people from these atrocities,” the statement says, referring to Hamas’ initial attacks. “We affirm Israel’s right to defend itself. We urge all parties to act according to international law and to prioritize the protection of civilians. We are worried about the humanitarian situation in Gaza and call on all actors to ensure the delivery of humanitarian aid to those in need.” The statement adds: “We support equal rights, freedom and self-determination for both Israelis and Palestinians and we grieve for every civilian life lost in this conflict. We continue to support Palestinian hopes for their own state and believe that a two-state solution is the best way to achieve lasting peace.”