President Biden expressed frustration with the media’s coverage on Friday, following the release of a hot mic incident where he mentioned Israeli Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu needing a “come to [Yoshkah]” talk regarding the situation in Gaza.
When questioned about the incident as he departed the White House for a campaign visit to Philadelphia, Biden attempted to clarify, stating, “I didn’t say that in the speech.”
Pressed further on whether the remark was made “after the speech,” Biden retorted, “You guys eavesdropping on things.”
The 81-year-old president made the awkward remark about the Israeli leader while conversing with lawmakers after his State of the Union address, privately urging Senator Michael Bennet (D-Colo.) to keep their conversation confidential. “I told him, ‘Bibi’ — and don’t repeat this, but ‘You and I are going to have a come to [Yoshkah]—’,” Biden started before being interrupted by an aide who rushed over, exclaiming “Sir!” and whispering in his ear.
Realizing he was on a hot mic, Biden remarked aloud, “I’m on a hot mic here,” followed by a sarcastic remark, “Good. That was good.”
During the exchange, Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg were nearby, though it remains unclear if they heard the comment.
This incident followed other candid remarks made by Biden after his speech, including a quip to Representative Jerry Nadler (D-NY), who praised the president’s remarks as evidence of his mental acuity, to which Biden responded, “I kinda wish sometimes I was cognitively impaired.”
Biden initially supported Netanyahu’s military action in Gaza, earning him the moniker “Genocide Joe” from some critics, particularly as Democratic concerns mount regarding potential loss of support from Arab American and Muslim voters in the upcoming election. However, Biden’s stance has gradually shifted, becoming increasingly critical of Netanyahu’s handling of the Israeli war in Gaza, aimed at driving out Hamas terrorists responsible for the October 7 surprise attack that claimed 1,200 lives in southern Israel.
During his State of the Union address, Biden unveiled plans for the US military to construct a temporary humanitarian pier in Gaza, while also publicly cautioning Israeli forces about the necessity of allowing more aid to reach the enclave.
{Matzav.com}