The Washington Post reported on Sunday, citing unnamed official sources, that US President Joe Biden and his administration and his top aides are increasingly edging towards a breach with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, noting that they no longer regard him as a productive partner who can be influenced.
According to the report, some of Biden’s aides reportedly urged him to publicly criticize Netanyahu over Gaza operations, sources say. Biden, a long-time supporter of “Israel,” has been hesitant to do so but is considering it as Netanyahu continues to be frustrated with public actions.
Netanyahu’s recent actions, including turning down a prisoner swap deal and moving troops into Gaza against US recommendations, have irked US officials, the report says.
While the White House has rejected calls to withhold military aid, some aides argue that criticizing Netanyahu could allow Biden to distance himself from unpopular policies while affirming support for “Israel” itself.
Biden’s private frustration with Netanyahu was evident when he criticized “Israel’s” military campaign in Gaza as “over the top.”