Watch: Biden Questions If Netanyahu Is Influencing US Election Amid Middle East Tensions

Amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, US President Joe Biden expressed uncertainty over whether Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is deliberately stalling a ceasefire deal to impact the upcoming US presidential election. While Biden acknowledged his administration’s strong support for Israel, he questioned Netanyahu’s motives but stopped short of making any direct accusations.

“No administration has helped Israel more than I have. None. None. None,” Biden stated, adding that Netanyahu should “remember that.” He continued, “Whether he’s trying to influence the election, I don’t know, but I’m not counting on that.”

Several Democratic leaders have raised concerns that Netanyahu’s refusal to engage in ceasefire talks could hurt their party’s chances in the November election. Despite Biden’s call for negotiations, the Israeli Prime Minister has rejected proposals, insisting on continued military actions.

Regarding recent missile attacks, Biden said there was no decision yet on how to respond to Iran’s missile strike on Israel earlier this week. The Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps claimed responsibility for the attack, stating it was in retaliation for Israeli strikes on Hezbollah leaders and Iran-backed militants in Lebanon and Gaza.

The United States, alongside its allies, proposed a 21-day ceasefire on the Israel-Lebanon border to prevent further escalation and allow for diplomatic efforts. However, Netanyahu refused the ceasefire, stating, “We are continuing to strike Hezbollah with full force. We will not stop until we reach all our goals, chief among them the safe return of northern residents to their homes.”

Israel has continued military actions on two fronts, launching a ground incursion into Lebanon against Hezbollah and conducting strikes in Gaza. The ongoing conflict has left multiple Israeli soldiers dead and caused significant civilian casualties, including children, as the region braces for further violence.