In a significant departure from previous statements, U.S. President Joe Biden expressed strong criticism of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s approach to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Speaking to donors supporting his 2024 re-election campaign, Biden highlighted concerns over Israel’s “indiscriminate” bombing in the region, signaling a growing rift in the traditionally close relationship between the two leaders.
The remarks from Biden are the most critical to date regarding Netanyahu’s handling of the Gaza conflict, which has resulted in significant casualties and a burgeoning humanitarian crisis. Biden emphasized the importance of a strategic shift in Israel’s approach, pointing out that the nation is jeopardizing its global support.
“Israel’s security can rest on the United States, but right now it has more than the United States. It has the European Union, it has Europe, it has most of the world … But they’re starting to lose that support by indiscriminate bombing that takes place,” said Biden.
The Gaza conflict, marked by retaliatory measures from Israel against Hamas attacks, has led to the loss of thousands of lives, extensive injuries, and a dire humanitarian situation. Biden’s candid remarks provide insight into the depth of his disagreements with Netanyahu, which have persisted for decades.
During the president’s address to donors, he referred to a private conversation with Netanyahu in which the Israeli leader drew comparisons with historical wartime strategies. “You carpet bombed Germany, you dropped the atom bomb, a lot of civilians died,” Netanyahu reportedly said.
Biden’s response to Netanyahu’s historical references underscored his commitment to avoiding past mistakes. “Yeah, that’s why all these institutions were set up after World War Two to see to it that it didn’t happen again … don’t make the same mistakes we made in 9/11. There’s no reason why we had to be in a war in Afghanistan,” Biden stated.
The president’s comments reflect a nuanced approach to foreign policy and suggest a desire for Israel to reconsider its military tactics, taking into account the humanitarian consequences and potential ramifications on global support. The shift in rhetoric could mark a turning point in U.S.-Israel relations and underscores the Biden administration’s commitment to a more balanced and strategic approach to conflict resolution in the Middle East.
