President Joe Biden recently had a phone call with Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, where they discussed various issues including Iran’s recent missile and drone attack on Israel. Biden reaffirmed his commitment to Israel’s security, but there is a difference in opinion on Israeli strategy in Rafah. Netanyahu is considering a ground offensive, which the U.S. opposes. The leaders also talked about hostage negotiations, cease-fire discussions, and humanitarian aid in Gaza. More than a million Palestinians are currently sheltering in Rafah, and the U.S. is working to share its concerns with Israel before any potential military action takes place.
The call between Biden and Netanyahu comes amidst growing pro-Palestinian protests on U.S. college campuses. Demonstrators are calling for an end to the war and urging universities to divest from companies that do business in Israel. Biden has faced criticism for his support of Israel since Hamas’ attack on October 7. There are also concerns about rising antisemitism on college campuses that some have called on the president to denounce. It remains to be seen how Biden will navigate these pressing issues while maintaining a strong relationship with Israel.
This recent phone call was the first between Biden and Netanyahu since April, when Biden expressed his concerns about Israeli airstrikes that killed humanitarian workers. The administration’s public rhetoric toward Israel sharpened after these deaths, with Biden criticizing Netanyahu for his handling of the war. The president stated that he did not agree with Netanyahu’s approach, signaling a shift in their relationship. The ongoing conflict in Gaza continues to test the diplomatic ties between the U.S. and Israel, and Biden’s response to the situation will be closely monitored by both domestic and international observers.
The situation in Rafah, where Palestinians are seeking shelter amidst potential conflict, remains a point of contention between the U.S. and Israel. The U.S. has urged Israel not to proceed with a ground offensive until further consultations are held to address mutual concerns. This highlights the complexities of the conflict in Gaza and the challenges facing both countries in finding a resolution. As the violence escalates and civilian casualties rise, the pressure on Biden to broker a lasting peace grows.
Progressives and Muslim Americans have criticized Biden for his handling of the conflict and his support for Israel, while some have called on him to denounce antisemitism on college campuses. The protests on college campuses reflect a broader societal divide on the issue, with differing opinions on how to address the conflict and support the rights of both Israelis and Palestinians. Biden’s response to these criticisms and calls for action will be crucial in shaping his administration’s stance on the conflict and its impact on U.S. foreign policy.
As tensions in the region continue to mount, Biden’s relationship with Netanyahu and his approach to the conflict in Gaza will be closely watched. The U.S. has a longstanding alliance with Israel, but the recent disagreements over strategy and humanitarian issues highlight the complexities of the situation. Biden’s commitment to Israel’s security while also addressing the concerns of Palestinians and their supporters will require delicate diplomatic maneuvering. The phone call between Biden and Netanyahu is a significant step in this process, but the challenges of finding a peaceful resolution to the conflict remain a pressing issue for the administration.
