President Joe Biden expressed uncertainty about Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu’s motivations in delaying a ceasefire deal in Gaza, suggesting it may be politically influenced ahead of the US elections. Biden emphasized his administration’s support for Israel while growing concerns emerge among Democrats regarding the impact of Israel’s actions on the upcoming elections. The already strained relationship between Biden and Netanyahu contrasts with Netanyahu’s past rapport with former President Trump. Amid continued military actions in Gaza, Biden’s diplomatic efforts face significant hurdles.
President Joe Biden has publicly expressed uncertainty regarding whether Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is deliberately delaying a Gaza ceasefire to potentially influence the upcoming US election. During his recent appearance at a White House press briefing, Biden stated, “Whether he’s trying to influence the election, I don’t know but I’m not counting on that.” The President emphasized his strong commitment to Israel, reminding reporters, “No administration has helped Israel more than I have. None, none, none,” and indicating that Netanyahu should be cognizant of this support. Biden’s remarks come in light of growing concerns among some Democrats regarding Netanyahu’s apparent reluctance to respond to calls for a ceasefire and hostage negotiations, which they fear may negatively impact Democratic prospects at the polls in November. Democratic Senator Chris Murphy noted to CNN this week, “I don’t think you have to be a hopeless cynic to read some of Israel’s actions… as connected to the American election.” Recent polling data reflects that the escalating violence in the Middle East, coupled with the absence of a diplomatic resolution, is adversely affecting Biden’s approval ratings, particularly among Arab-American voters—an important demographic ahead of the election. Given the turmoil in Gaza, this development poses potential risks for the Democratic Party this November. Despite ongoing efforts by the Biden administration to facilitate a diplomatic agreement between Israel and Hamas, the likelihood of achieving a deal before the election appears to be dwindling. Biden has criticized Hamas for failing to engage meaningfully in negotiations while expressing frustration with Netanyahu’s actions, suggesting that the Israeli leader is not making sufficient efforts to reach a compromise. Netanyahu, for his part, stated earlier this month that there is no ongoing deal with Hamas, contradicting US assessments that a resolution was nearly finalized. The relationship between Biden and Netanyahu has become increasingly strained. This contrasts sharply with Netanyahu’s previously amiable ties with former President Donald Trump, the Republican nominee, who is positioning for a return to office. As tensions rise, Israel’s military operations continue unabated, including airstrikes in Gaza and a ground invasion in southern Lebanon, while also responding to threats from Iranian missile attacks. In response to concerns about possible Israeli strikes on Iranian oil fields, President Biden reassured that the Israeli government has not made a definitive decision on their military actions. Biden added, “If I were in their shoes, I’d be thinking about other alternatives than striking oil fields.” Additionally, a comment made by Biden earlier in the week about potential strikes on Iran’s oil infrastructure inadvertently led to a rise in oil prices, reflecting the delicacy of the situation.
The article discusses the complex dynamics between President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, particularly in the context of the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. It highlights concerns within the Democratic Party regarding the ramifications of Netanyahu’s actions on the upcoming US elections, especially as Biden’s approval ratings among crucial voter demographics decline. The geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, including military operations in Gaza and threats from Iran, are also emphasized as factors influencing US foreign policy and domestic electoral outcomes.
In conclusion, President Biden’s comments reflect the intricate and often fraught relationship with Prime Minister Netanyahu amidst an escalating crisis involving Gaza and broader regional tensions. Biden’s uncertainty about Netanyahu’s motivations, coupled with domestic political considerations, illustrates the challenges the administration faces in steering US-Israel relations during a crucial election period. The lack of progress toward a ceasefire exacerbates these challenges, potentially impacting voter sentiment ahead of the November elections.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
