President Joe Biden issued firm remarks directed at Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during a White House briefing on Friday. Biden expressed uncertainty over whether Netanyahu was intentionally delaying a peace deal in the Middle East to influence the upcoming U.S. presidential election.
Biden emphasized the strong support his administration has provided Israel, stating, “No administration has helped Israel more than I have. None.” He added, “Whether [Netanyahu] is trying to influence the election, I don’t know – but I’m not counting on that.”
This exchange comes at a time when the U.S. has been pushing for a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, though negotiations have yet to succeed. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has been involved in multiple diplomatic efforts, but Netanyahu has resisted calls for a ceasefire publicly, despite ongoing discussions between U.S. and Israeli officials behind closed doors.
Israel, meanwhile, has expanded its military operations, launching strikes in Gaza and carrying out ground incursions into Lebanon against Hezbollah. There has also been speculation regarding potential Israeli retaliation against Iran for its recent ballistic missile attack. Biden mentioned that no decision has been made on how to respond to Iran, though he cautioned against targeting Iranian oilfields, suggesting other alternatives should be considered.
Despite tensions, Biden reaffirmed his commitment to supporting Israel, particularly after the Hamas attacks on October 7. He has consistently backed U.S. arms transfers to Israel while urging caution to avoid civilian casualties. Vice President Kamala Harris, while maintaining the administration's stance on arms sales, has been more vocal in calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and condemning civilian deaths in the conflict.
As Biden and Netanyahu navigate their complicated relationship, both leaders face increasing pressures, with ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and the looming 2024 U.S. election adding further strain.
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