U-turn: Biden turns his back on Netanyahu, urges caution
The president warned Tuesday that Israel is losing support globally, so he suggested the prime minister make some changes.
(Cordon Press)
Joe Biden appeared to change his tone on Israel at an event with donors. Although he initially reiterated his support for the Jewish state in the midst of its war against Hamas, the president recommended that Benjamin Netanyahu make some changes in the short term, given that, according to him, Israel’s strategy is beginning to lose support globally. The conflict with the terrorist group has already lasted two months.
The Democrat, who will seek re-election in 2024, participated in an event with donors in Washington, D.C., in which he maintained his full support for Israel, which he described as "unwavering." However, just moments later, he appeared to distance himself from Netanyahu.
"It has to change, and with this government, this government in Israel is making it very difficult for him to move. Bibi’s got a tough decision to make," said the president.
"This is the most conservative government in Israel’s history," he noted, later adding that the current Israeli administration "does not want a two-state solution."
At the same time, regarding the strategy used by Israel to combat the terrorists, he was concerned about the repercussions it is having on public opinion. "They have to be careful. The whole world’s public opinion can shift overnight. We can’t let that happen,” he added.
On Netanyahu's side, he made clear on Tuesday that there are disagreements with Washington over the next steps to be taken in the Gaza Strip.
Meanwhile, Netanyahu on Tuesday said that while he appreciates Biden's support against Hamas, there are disagreements between them over possible next steps for the region after the war.
"Yes, there is disagreement about ‘the day after Hamas’ and I hope that we will reach agreement here as well. I would like to clarify my position: I will not allow Israel to repeat the mistake of Oslo," said the prime minister, referring to the Oslo Accords that were signed in the White House in 1993 so that Palestinians and Israelis recognized each other's right to exist.
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