US President Joe Biden expressed criticism towards Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s strategy in the Gaza conflict, labelling it as a “mistake.”
Biden voiced his disagreement with Netanyahu’s approach during a discussion with Univision, emphasizing his concerns over Israel’s military actions in Gaza, which he has previously described as “indiscriminate” and “over the top.”
Biden revealed that he had urged Netanyahu in a phone call to ensure the protection of aid workers and civilians following an Israeli airstrike that resulted in the deaths of seven World Central Kitchen staff members.
Biden advocated for a ceasefire and called for unhindered access to food and medicine for Gaza over the next six to eight weeks. The ongoing military offensive in Gaza by Israel has attracted international condemnation and prompted protests within the US, with calls for a permanent ceasefire and limitations on US military aid to Israel. This comes in the backdrop of the devastating impact of the conflict, including a significant death toll, mass displacement, and allegations of genocide, which Israel denies.
Despite traditionally supporting Israel, including significant US foreign aid and protective vetoes in the UN Security Council, the US abstained from a recent demand for an immediate ceasefire, reflecting the complexity of its stance on the conflict.
