President Joe Biden is facing criticism for hosting a barbecue at the White House on Sunday while the conflict between Israel and Hamas continues to escalate. Republican lawmakers have expressed concern about the timing of the event, with some questioning Biden's seriousness in addressing the situation in the Middle East.

🚨🚨 JUST IN: Biden Held White House Barbecue Sunday Despite Americans Killed, Captured In Gazahttps://t.co/hJNKTdMQRG

— 🇺🇸🇺🇸Josh Dunlap🇺🇲🇺🇲 ULTRA-MAGA (@JDunlap1974) October 9, 2023

The barbecue was reportedly held for White House Executive Residence staff and their families and featured a live band. The criticism comes as the death toll in the conflict surpasses 1,200 and reports emerge of Americans being held hostage by Hamas. Biden has publicly expressed his support for Israel and offered assistance to the Israeli government. However, some conservatives argue that hosting a barbecue during this time sends the wrong message.

The situation in Israel remains tense, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declaring war on Hamas and vowing to inflict an "unprecedented price." Amidst the criticism, Biden spoke with Netanyahu and discussed the potential for a ground operation and the opening of a second front along the Lebanese border.