Netanyahu Refuses to Back Down in a Tense Phone Call

President Joe Biden’s decision to pause some military aid to Israel was a direct result of a pointed phone call he had with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on April 4, a U.S. official revealed. In the call, Biden gave Netanyahu an ultimatum to protect citizens and aid workers following the deaths of seven World Central Kitchen workers in an Israeli air strike.

The decision to withhold a shipment of heavy bombs from Israel came after the White House acted on the ultimatum, expressing concern over Israel’s military strategy in Rafah. This move marks a turning point in the historically close relationship between the U.S. and Israel.

While Biden’s administration has emphasized the importance of protecting civilians in Gaza, Netanyahu’s defiance of Biden’s advice on Rafah has strained their relationship. Despite Biden’s efforts to negotiate with Netanyahu, the Israeli leader’s actions have put pressure on the U.S. administration.

The public nature of the weapons pause has sparked criticism from Biden’s Republican opposition, with former President Donald Trump accusing Biden of undermining Israel’s security. However, supporters see the move as a message to the world that American aid cannot be taken for granted.

As tensions continue to rise between the U.S. and Israel, the future of their relationship remains uncertain. Biden’s efforts to influence Netanyahu’s actions in Gaza highlight the challenges of balancing diplomacy and foreign policy in the Middle East.