Israel's TV 13 Foreign Relations Correspondent, Gil Temari, highlights the strained relationship between Biden and Netanyahu, citing Biden's characterization of Netanyahu as "evil" in Politico magazine.
Additionally, White House National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, when questioned about statements made by Israel's Internal Security Minister Itamar Ben Gower regarding relations with Netanyahu, opted to defer to the Israeli government and politicians, stating that they are capable of expressing their views while the US administration presents its perspective.
Tensions between officials in Tel Aviv and Washington have intensified, exacerbated by disparities between the US government and the Israeli cabinet, particularly regarding the ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip. Despite public disagreements between Biden and Netanyahu, especially concerning Gaza strategy, the level and nature of White House support for Tel Aviv remain unchanged.
Reports from Israeli media indicate that Biden terminated a call with Netanyahu on December 23, leading to heightened tensions. Netanyahu's recent accusations against Biden of supporting Hamas, made during an interview with the Wall Street Journal, further strained relations, prompting Netanyahu to assert his independence in managing Washington ties.
Israel's Channel 13 reporter details Sullivan's viewpoint, emphasizing disagreement over a prisoner release agreement. Sullivan underscores the importance of prioritizing agreements that secure the release of hostages, including Americans, implying that the Israeli government should prioritize similarly to address public expectations.
News ID : 2837