Biden Criticizes Netanyahu, Accuses Him of Politically Motivating War Extension

In a recent interview with TIME, President Joe Biden criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, agreeing with the suggestion that Netanyahu might be prolonging the war in Gaza for political reasons. “There is every reason for people to draw that conclusion,” Biden stated when asked if Netanyahu was extending the conflict for his own gain.

When questioned about potential war crimes committed by Israeli forces in Gaza, Biden’s response was, “It’s uncertain.”

Biden proposed a phased ceasefire plan on May 31, aimed at ending the war and securing the release of hostages. He claimed Israel had made a proposal to Hamas, which included the following phases:

Phase 1:

• Complete ceasefire

• Withdrawal of Israeli forces from populated areas in Gaza

• Release of some hostages and remains of hostages

• Return of Palestinian civilians to their homes

• Increase in humanitarian aid

Phase 2:

• Permanent end to hostilities

• Exchange for the release of remaining living hostages

• Israeli forces withdraw from Gaza

Phase 3:

• Major reconstruction plan for Gaza

• Final remains of hostages returned to their families

Netanyahu’s office quickly refuted Biden’s claims, emphasizing that Israel's proposal included conditions that would allow the country to continue its military operations until all objectives were met, including the destruction of Hamas’s military and governing capabilities. Netanyahu’s office released a statement reiterating that Israel’s conditions for ending the war remained unchanged and that a permanent ceasefire would only be possible once these conditions were fulfilled.

Earlier in May, tensions between Biden and Netanyahu escalated when Biden threatened to withhold military support if Israel proceeded with its operation targeting Hamas terrorists in Rafah. Netanyahu responded resolutely, invoking Israel's historical resilience and determination to stand alone if necessary, vowing, “We will fight with our fingernails... and with God’s help, we will win together.”

The ongoing conflict and the contrasting positions of Biden and Netanyahu continue to shape the complex dynamics between the United States and Israel, with significant implications for the broader Middle East.

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