Analysis: The growing divide between Biden and Netanyahu

President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s strained relationship has taken center stage in recent days as they navigate the fallout from the terror attacks on October 7th. Despite their history of clashes, the two leaders found themselves in a precarious situation as Hamas launched a brutal assault on Israel, prompting Biden to reevaluate his stance on supporting Israel’s right to self-defense.

Biden’s initial skepticism of Netanyahu’s intentions was overshadowed by the urgent need to address the existential threat posed by Hamas. The President’s decision to stand by Israel’s war efforts, despite pressure from within his own party to take a more realpolitik approach, marked a significant departure from traditional US policy.

However, Netanyahu’s refusal to heed Biden’s counsel and his hardline stance on the conflict has forced the President’s hand. In a televised interview, Biden announced a pause on shipments of bombs to Israel, emphasizing his commitment to preventing civilian casualties in Gaza.

The move to condition aid to Israel represents a significant shift in US strategy, signaling a potential rift in the historic alliance between the two countries. While both leaders have downplayed the impact of Biden’s statement, the public declaration has set a new precedent for US involvement in the region.

By pushing Biden to take a stand against a wholesale invasion of Rafah, Netanyahu has inadvertently shifted the political landscape, potentially paving the way for future administrations to reassess their approach to supporting Israel. The fallout from their strained relationship may have lasting implications for US-Israeli relations moving forward.