President Joe Biden expressed frustration with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday, implying that the Israeli leader might be delaying a peace deal for political reasons ahead of the 2024 US election.
“No administration has helped Israel more than I have,” Biden stated. “None. None, none. And I think Bibi should remember that. And whether he is trying to influence the election, I do not know, but I am not counting on that”, as reported by Associated Press.
Biden’s remarks came in response to comments made by Senator Chris Murphy, D-Conn., who had earlier voiced concerns that Netanyahu was prioritising US politics over peace efforts. The relationship between the two leaders has become increasingly strained, particularly over differing approaches to the Gaza conflict.
While Biden has pushed for a ceasefire , Netanyahu has shown resistance, continuing with military operations, including strikes in Gaza and a ground incursion into Lebanon against Hezbollah, which has resulted in the deaths of Israeli soldiers. The region remains tense, especially after Iran’s ballistic missile attack, with Israel vowing retaliation.
Regarding a possible Israeli strike on Iran, Biden said no decision had been made but suggested, “if I were in their shoes, I would be thinking about other alternatives than striking oil fields.” He denied seeking a meeting with Netanyahu on the matter, saying they would speak once a decision had been made.
Despite Biden’s steadfast support for Israel’s security, he has increasingly voiced concerns over escalating violence. He has delayed the delivery of heavy bombs to Israel and stressed the need to avoid an all-out war, stating, “I do not believe there is going to be an all-out war… but there is a lot to do yet”, AP reported.
Since the deadly Hamas attack on Israel in October 2023, Biden has largely backed arms transfers to Israel while urging caution to prevent civilian casualties. The US has also stepped up military activity in the region, intercepting missiles fired by Iran into Israel.