On Friday, President Joe Biden had sharp words for Israeli Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu, expressing uncertainty over whether the Israeli leader might be delaying a peace deal to sway the outcome of the 2024 U.S. presidential election.
“No administration has helped Israel more than I have,” Biden emphasized. “None. None, none. And I think Bibi should remember that. And whether he’s trying to influence the election, I don’t know but I’m not counting on that.”
Biden’s remarks came during a rare appearance in the White House press briefing room, where he responded to concerns raised by one of his close allies, Sen. Chris Murphy of Connecticut. Murphy had recently said on CNN that he was worried Netanyahu’s lack of commitment to a peace deal might be influenced by U.S. political dynamics.
At the same time, Israel has been intensifying its military operations on two fronts. The Israeli Defense Forces launched a ground offensive into Lebanon against Hezbollah, resulting in the deaths of eight Israeli soldiers. Meanwhile, Israeli airstrikes in Gaza have killed dozens, including children. In addition, Israel has pledged to retaliate for a ballistic missile attack by Iran earlier this week, as the region braces for further conflict.
Regarding the potential U.S. response to Iran’s missile strike, Biden noted that no final decision had been made yet.
“I’m assuming when they make a decision on how they’re going to respond, we will then have a discussion,” Biden said.
{Matzav.com}