Joe Biden Criticizes Benjamin Netanyahu as Conflict in Gaza Continues
According to well-placed sources, President Joe Biden has privately referred to Israeli leader Benjamin Netanyahu as a “bad f–king guy” amidst the ongoing Gaza war. The sources claim that Biden has become suspicious of Netanyahu’s eagerness to involve the United States in a full-scale war against Iran-backed terror groups in the Middle East. However, White House Deputy Press Secretary Andrew Bates denies these allegations, stating that Biden and Netanyahu have a respectful relationship both in public and private.
Tensions between Biden and Netanyahu
The conflict between Biden and Netanyahu has escalated, with reports of heated exchanges between the two leaders. In December, Biden allegedly hung up on Netanyahu during a phone call. The main points of contention include the need to limit civilian casualties in Gaza, which has seen a death toll exceeding 27,000 according to the Hamas-run Health Ministry, and differing visions for the future of the Palestinian enclave after the war concludes.
Biden’s Support for Israel
Despite the disagreements, Biden has consistently expressed support for Israel. However, this stance has negatively impacted his popularity among young voters. A recent New York Times-Siena Poll shows that Biden is trailing behind Donald Trump among voters aged 18 to 29. This decline in support can be attributed to the ongoing war in Gaza and its impact on civilian casualties.
Political Implications
Political observers believe that the Gaza conflict is a significant factor contributing to Biden’s declining popularity. Many Democratic voters view Netanyahu as “toxic,” and there is growing pressure on Biden to distance himself from the Israeli prime minister. Failure to address these concerns may cost Biden thousands of votes in the upcoming November elections.
Netanyahu’s Response
Netanyahu has dismissed the criticism and continues to publicly support Biden. He expressed gratitude for the Biden administration’s support during the war, acknowledging that disagreements exist but emphasizing their ability to overcome them through careful decision-making.
