WILMINGTON, Delaware: In a recent interview with MSNBC’s Jonathan Capehart, US President Joe Biden expressed concerns about Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s approach to the conflict with Hamas in Gaza. Biden stated that he believes Netanyahu is “hurting Israel more than helping Israel” and urged him to pay more attention to the loss of innocent lives in the conflict.
The U.S. leader emphasized Israel’s right to pursue Hamas but criticized the increasing civilian casualties, warning that Israel risks losing international support. Biden referred to the death toll in Gaza as contrary to what Israel stands for and a big mistake.
Biden identified a potential Israeli invasion of the Gaza city of Rafah as a “red line” for him but clarified that he would not cut off weapons like the Iron Dome missile interceptors, crucial for protecting Israeli civilians from rocket attacks.
Expressing willingness to address the Israeli Knesset and make another trip to the country, Biden hoped to secure a temporary ceasefire before Ramadan, although Hamas has resisted a proposed deal by the U.S. and its allies. Israel remains committed to its invasion, aiming to eliminate Hamas.
CIA Director Bill Burns is currently in the region attempting to revive a deal. Biden’s comments were preceded by a hot mic moment after the State of the Union address, where he mentioned a “come-to-Jesus meeting” with Netanyahu regarding growing humanitarian concerns in Gaza.