President Joe Biden recently had a crucial phone call with Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, highlighting various pressing issues, such as Israel’s security, humanitarian aid in Gaza, and ceasefire discussions. The conversation also touched upon the possibility of a potential ground offensive in Rafah, with Biden publicly expressing his opposition to such a move by Israel.
With over a million Palestinians seeking shelter in Rafah, concerns have been raised about the potential consequences of a ground offensive in the region. This phone call took place against a backdrop of ongoing pro-Palestinian protests at U.S. college campuses, where student organizers are demanding an end to the war and urging divestment from companies that engage in business with Israel.
President Biden has faced backlash for his support of Israel following recent events, most notably from progressive groups and Muslim Americans who are calling on him to publicly denounce the rising antisemitism on college campuses. This phone call marked the first direct communication between Biden and Netanyahu since April, when Biden criticized the Israeli government for airstrikes on humanitarian workers.
Following the April incident, the Biden administration’s stance towards Israel has become more pointed, with Biden openly expressing his disagreement with Netanyahu’s approach to the conflict. As tensions continue to escalate and the humanitarian crisis worsens in Gaza, the world will be closely watching how these conversations and decisions unfold between the leaders of the United States and Israel.
