A far-right minister in Israel’s government criticized President Joe Biden, asserting that Donald Trump would have provided more freedom to fight against Hamas. This criticism sparked outrage in Israel, highlighting the sensitivity of relations with the U.S., a key supporter of the offensive against Hamas in Gaza.
The Biden administration, despite rushing weapons to Israel and shielding it from international calls for a cease-fire, has urged Israel to take greater measures to avoid civilian harm and facilitate aid delivery to Gaza. Israel’s National Security Minister, Itamar Ben-Gvir, accused Biden of hindering Israel’s war effort and claimed that under Trump, U.S. conduct would be different.
Ben-Gvir’s comments drew criticism from Benny Gantz and opposition leader Yair Lapid, who accused him of damaging American-Israeli relations and lacking understanding of foreign relations. The Palestinian Foreign Ministry condemned Ben-Gvir’s remarks as “racist” and called for international sanctions, citing a threat to regional stability.
Israeli Far-Right Minister Sparks Criticism for Joe Biden Critique (Credits: Arab News)
Without naming Ben-Gvir, Prime Minister Netanyahu expressed gratitude to Biden for support while cautioning against those who reject everything, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding vital interests.
Ben-Gvir and other far-right figures in Netanyahu’s coalition have advocated for the voluntary mass emigration of Palestinians from Gaza and the return of Jewish settlements, ideas opposed by the Biden administration. There are threats within Netanyahu’s coalition to bring down the government if they perceive a soft approach towards Hamas.
The war in Gaza has caused extensive damage, displacing 85% of the population and pushing a quarter into starvation. The death toll stands at 27,365, with airstrikes continuing to target civilian areas. The U.S. Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, is set to visit the region, with more aid to Gaza a top priority.
The visit also focuses on tense negotiations, mediated by the U.S., Qatar, and Egypt, to free over 100 captives from the Oct. 7 Hamas attack in exchange for a cease-fire and the release of Palestinians jailed in Israel. Hamas demands the release of thousands of Palestinian prisoners, and Netanyahu rejects both demands. Hamas is expected to respond to the latest cease-fire offer in the coming days.
