Netanyahu Optimistic on Biden Discord, Firm on Rafah Assault

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu conveyed his optimism about bridging the gap with President Joe Biden over the Gaza conflict, while underscoring the necessity of neutralizing Hamas. During an interview on the “Dr. Phil Primetime” show that aired on Thursday, Netanyahu reflected on his longstanding relationship with Biden, spanning over four decades, noting that while they have often found common ground, disagreements have also been part of their dynamic.

Addressing the current rift, Netanyahu expressed hope for reconciliation, emphasizing their ability to overcome differences in the past. However, he remained steadfast in his stance that a ground assault on Rafah must proceed, citing the imperative of eradicating Hamas from the city. He emphasized that in his view, there is no alternative, stating, “rational-minded people understand that we don’t have a choice.”

Netanyahu’s comments came in response to Biden’s recent threat to halt the supply of certain weapons to Israel, a move prompted by the Israeli plan for a ground offensive in Rafah. Netanyahu downplayed the impact of the U.S. threat, asserting that Israel is prepared to stand alone if necessary, using the metaphor of fighting with “our fingernails.” He added, “I assure you Dr. Phil, we have more than fingernails.”

In a tangential remark, Netanyahu criticized college campus protests in the U.S., which he attributed to a combination of radical Islam and the ultra-anarchist left. He also appeared to take a veiled swipe at Biden and other world leaders critical of Israel’s conduct in the Gaza war, suggesting they succumb to pressure and propaganda.

Biden’s opposition to Israel’s plan for a ground offensive in Rafah stems from concerns over potential civilian casualties and exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. This stance was underscored by Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, who confirmed the U.S. had paused a shipment of “high-payload munitions” to Israel. The shipment reportedly included 1,800 2,000-pound bombs and 1,700 500-pound bombs.