US President Joe Biden was overheard expressing his frustration over Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Biden’s comments followed his State of the Union address in Washington, where he mentioned a plan for a “come to Jesus meeting” with Netanyahu to discuss concerns about Gaza. The US president emphasized the importance of addressing humanitarian needs in the region, against the backdrop of worsening conditions that include severe food shortages and the risk of famine due to Israeli restrictions on aid.

Biden urged Israel to prioritize humanitarian aid and cautioned against using it as leverage, pointing out the necessity to alleviate the suffering of the Palestinian population while ensuring security. This stance marks a tense moment in US-Israel relations, amidst the broader context of the Israel-Gaza conflict and US foreign policy challenges in the Middle East.

Simultaneously, Prime Minister Netanyahu’s government continues its aggressive posture towards Gaza, despite mounting international critique. The US, Berlin, and Paris have condemned Israel’s strategies that have contributed to escalating violence and humanitarian crises in Gaza. In response to criticism, including from Biden, the US has initiated aid airdrops to support those affected in the territory.

This unfolding situation has led to a global call for resolution and highlighted the deepening divisions within the international community regarding Israel’s actions in Gaza. The discourse around Israel’s continued defiance, its impact on US support, and the urgency to address the humanitarian plight in Gaza is gaining traction amid these criticisms and diplomatic tensions.