In a notable shift, President Joe Biden has voiced concerns about Israel’s ongoing airstrikes in Gaza, cautioning Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that such indiscriminate attacks are causing a rift in the international community.
Speaking at a campaign fundraising event in Washington, Biden characterized Netanyahu’s government as the most conservative in Israel’s history and urged him to consider a change. The President specifically pointed to the national security minister, Itama Ben-Gvir, for opposing a two-state solution.
Despite widespread international support for an immediate humanitarian cease-fire in Gaza, the United States vetoed a United Nations resolution, sparking discussions on the global stance toward the conflict.
Biden highlighted the importance of a two-state solution, drawing parallels with past U.S. decisions post-9/11 and emphasizing the need to learn from history. As the Gaza conflict persists, divisions are arising over the post-hostilities phase, with Biden’s call for Gaza to be handed over to a reformed Palestinian Authority facing resistance in Israel.
Following a phone call between Biden and Netanyahu, the Israeli leader acknowledged a “disagreement” over the future post-Hamas scenario. While expressing hope for an agreement, Netanyahu pledged not to repeat past mistakes, referencing the 1993 Oslo peace accords.
Biden underscored that, despite Israel’s support from the European Union, Europe, and much of the world, its indiscriminate bombing in Gaza puts that support at risk. The delicate alliance formed after Hamas’ October 7 attack is now in jeopardy.
