Biden Criticizes Netanyahu Over Hamas Leader's Assassination in Iran, Ceasefire Impact

Aug 4, 2024, 08:31 AM

President Joe Biden has expressed strong concerns over Israel's recent assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Iran, which he believes undermines efforts to reach a ceasefire deal. In a heated phone call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Biden criticized the timing of the operation, arguing that it jeopardizes the ongoing negotiations for a truce and the release of hostages in the Gaza Strip. Reports indicate that Biden felt misled by Netanyahu regarding the status of these negotiations. Despite Biden's objections, Netanyahu defended the operation, stating that it was necessary and would not hinder the ceasefire talks. This incident marks a significant rift between the two leaders, with Biden reportedly using strong language, urging Netanyahu to stop misleading him and not to take the U.S. support for granted. A senior U.S. official also criticized Netanyahu for disregarding the significant U.S. aid provided over the past 10 months.