As President Biden intensifies his public criticisms of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s handling of the Gaza crisis, tensions continue to simmer. Despite Biden’s efforts to pressure Netanyahu into prioritizing humanitarian concerns, including a warning of a “come to Jesus” talk, Netanyahu remains resolute. Biden’s hope for a Ramadan cease-fire deal remains elusive, with growing concerns over violence in East Jerusalem.
The U.S. has initiated extraordinary measures to aid Gaza, contrasting Israel’s resistance to increased land routes for aid. Netanyahu’s rebuttals to Biden’s criticisms underscore the strained U.S.-Israel relations, with mixed reactions within Israel itself. Biden’s escalation in rhetoric reflects mounting frustration over Netanyahu’s reluctance to embrace U.S. visions for post-war Gaza.
Political calculus intertwines with Biden’s diplomatic maneuvers, as he faces pressure from progressive Democrats and electoral considerations. Despite internal discussions of a presidential visit to Israel to bypass Netanyahu, challenges persist in achieving a lasting resolution to the conflict.