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Jimmy Williams
President Biden criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s management of the war against Hamas in Gaza, labeling it “a mistake.” Biden urged Netanyahu to agree to a ceasefire of up to two months, allowing humanitarian organizations to deliver food and medicine to Gaza.
In an interview with Univision, President Biden expressed his disagreement with Netanyahu’s approach to the conflict. He stated, “What he’s doing is a mistake,” and emphasized the need for a ceasefire to provide humanitarian aid to Gaza. Biden’s remarks followed Israeli forces striking a vehicle convoy carrying a World Central Kitchen charity team, prompting criticism from humanitarian groups.
“I think it’s outrageous that those four, three vehicles were hit by drones and taken out on a highway,” Mr. Biden told the Spanish language broadcaster. “What I’m calling for is for the Israelis to just call for a cease-fire, allow for the next six, eight weeks, total access to all food and medicine going into the country.”
Biden’s call for a ceasefire came after Vice President Kamala Harris met with families of Americans held hostage in Gaza. Jonathan Dekel-Chen, a parent of one of the hostages, expressed concern about Netanyahu’s commitment to securing their release. He said, “Whatever Israel does should not sacrifice the second time around for the hostages.”
The conflict between Israel and Hamas has resulted in casualties on both sides. Hamas killed about 1,200 people and seized over 200 hostages during its terror attack on southern Israel. In response, the health ministry in the Hamas-run Gaza Strip says Israel’s military action has killed more than 33,000 military people, predominantly women and children.
Amid international pressure, Israel has withdrawn some forces from southern Gaza. However, Netanyahu remains determined to “destroy Hamas” and has vowed to continue operations. The Israeli leader plans to send IDF forces into Rafah, the last major city spared from ground operations.
White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan criticized Netanyahu’s strategy, stating there are better ways to target Hamas. Meanwhile, Secretary of State Antony Blinken urged Hamas to act, stating, “The ball is in Hamas’ court.”
As the conflict persists, U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin warned that Israel’s failure to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza could escalate violence and create more terrorists in the future.
