In the aftermath of the October 7 Hamas attacks, President Joe Biden initially expressed strong support for Israel. However, over two months, tensions between the White House and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government have escalated due to Israeli strikes in Gaza.
Biden accused Israel of “indiscriminate” bombing, using blunt language that is unusual in U.S.-Israel relations. A CNN report revealed that almost half of Israel’s air-to-ground munitions in Gaza were unguided “dumb bombs.”
Diplomatic strains are deepening as the U.S. faces criticism for its support of Israel’s military campaign. The political cost for Biden is rising both internationally, with Israel already isolated, and domestically, where he is encountering pushback for endorsing Israeli actions. Jake Sullivan, Biden’s national security adviser, visited Israel to address issues such as aid to Gaza and the military campaign’s next phase. Sullivan’s trip signals concerns that Israel hasn’t sufficiently considered civilian protection in its operations.
Biden’s frustration with Israel was evident in off-camera remarks, where he criticized “indiscriminate bombing” and suggested Netanyahu make necessary moves. Differences between the U.S. and Israeli governments are emerging on Gaza’s post-war future and the broader goal of a Palestinian state.
The conflict’s toll includes significant Palestinian casualties, a surge in antisemitism, and political ramifications in the U.S. The global community, including close allies Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, urged a ceasefire, causing a rare split in the Five Eyes intelligence alliance.
While the White House acknowledges concerns about Israel’s military campaign, Biden remains fundamentally pro-Israel. Despite growing pressure, tangible changes to U.S. support, such as conditioning a $14 billion aid package to Israel, are not currently planned. The aid measure faces challenges in Congress, and Israel perceives its actions in Gaza as vital for its security and the survival of the Jewish people. The political cost for Biden is mounting, but it remains uncertain if he can alter Israel’s course.
