Biden Criticizes Netanyahu's Efforts in Gaza Ceasefire Negotiations

 

In a rare public criticism, President Joe Biden has expressed his dissatisfaction with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s efforts to secure a ceasefire deal in Gaza. This marks a significant moment in US-Israel relations, highlighting the growing tension between the Biden administration and Netanyahu’s government amidst ongoing violence in Gaza.

Biden's Stance on Ceasefire

During a press briefing outside the White House, Biden indicated that the US is close to presenting a final proposal that could lead to the release of Israeli captives held in Gaza. However, when asked whether Netanyahu is doing enough to finalize a ceasefire agreement with Hamas, Biden responded with a blunt “no,” signaling his frustration with the Israeli leader’s approach.

This criticism comes after months of the Biden administration distancing itself from Netanyahu, particularly in light of the unpopularity of Israel’s actions in Gaza among Democratic supporters. Despite this distancing, Biden’s recent remarks are among the most direct criticisms he has made of Netanyahu, underscoring the complexities of the US’s role in the ongoing conflict.

US Efforts and Israeli Resistance

The renewed push for a ceasefire follows the discovery of six Israeli captives, including an American citizen, dead in Gaza. This tragic event has sparked mass protests in Israel, with citizens demanding a resolution to free the nearly 100 Israelis still held by Palestinian groups in Gaza.

Despite these efforts, Israel has continued its blockade and bombardment of Gaza, leading to the deaths of more than 40,700 Palestinians. The US, as Israel’s main weapons supplier and diplomatic ally, has faced criticism for its role in the conflict, particularly after vetoing multiple United Nations Security Council proposals that called for a ceasefire.

Biden’s comments on Netanyahu appear to contradict the statements of his aides, who have blamed Hamas for the failure to reach a deal. The US had previously proposed a “bridging proposal” to end the war, which Netanyahu reportedly accepted, but tensions remain high as the Israeli government insists on holding strategic territories in Gaza.

Political Implications in the US

The situation in Gaza has also had significant political repercussions in the US. The death of an American citizen among the Israeli captives has intensified calls for a ceasefire from some Democrats, while Republicans have criticized Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris for their handling of the situation. Former President Donald Trump, a Republican candidate for the upcoming presidential election, blamed Biden and Harris for the failure to protect American lives, accusing them of weak leadership.

Meanwhile, Harris has continued to support Israel, despite growing accusations of genocide in Gaza. Her strong condemnation of Hamas as “evil” and her commitment to arming Israel have disappointed some within her own party, particularly those advocating for an arms embargo against Israel.

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