Biden, Netanyahu To Meet in Washington Amidst Escalating Tensions

Joe Biden and Benjamin Netanyahu are expected to convene in Washington, DC, in the coming weeks, according to a source who spoke to CNN. The meeting is anticipated to take place at the White House and scheduled around Netanyahu’s visit to address Congress on July 24.

A White House official confirmed the likelihood of a meeting, stating, “The President has known Prime Minister Netanyahu for three decades. They will likely see each other when the prime minister is here over the course of that week, but we have nothing to announce at this time.”

Netanyahu is slated to address a joint session of the House of Representatives and the Senate during his Washington visit. The meeting comes amid stalled negotiations for a ceasefire and hostage release in the Israel-Hamas conflict, and escalating frustrations from the Biden administration regarding Israel’s conduct during the conflict.

Tensions between Biden and Netanyahu have intensified in recent months, with the US expressing dissatisfaction over the execution of the war, particularly concerning civilian protections. Biden has publicly expressed impatience and criticism, suggesting Netanyahu may be prolonging the conflict for political gain and questioning Israel’s adherence to international humanitarian standards.

In a recent development, Netanyahu’s claims about the Biden administration’s handling of military support further strained relations, prompting intense scrutiny in Washington.

The meeting between Biden and Netanyahu is expected to address these contentious issues amidst ongoing diplomatic efforts to achieve a lasting ceasefire and humanitarian resolution in the region.