In an explosive new book, veteran journalist Bob Woodward reveals private conversations between U.S. President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. According to excerpts shared by American media, Biden referred to Netanyahu as a “liar” and accused him of being “only interested in his political survival.”
Inside the Gaza Conflict: Biden’s Frustrations
The book, titled War, set for release on October 15, dives into the behind-the-scenes struggles of President Biden to halt Israel’s military actions against Hamas in Gaza. The conflict, triggered by a massive Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, left Biden frustrated with Netanyahu’s lack of a clear strategy.
In an April phone call, when Biden asked Netanyahu about his plan, the Israeli leader responded, “We need to go into Rafah.” Biden reportedly retorted, “Bibi, you don’t have a strategy.” He later vented to his advisors, calling Netanyahu a “liar” who “only cares about his own political survival.”
Biden Holds Back on Arms Leverage
Despite his frustrations, Biden has not leveraged U.S. arms shipments to influence Netanyahu’s policies. The only exception was a pause on a shipment of bombs in May. Biden publicly criticized Netanyahu in September for not doing enough to secure the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas in Gaza.
Vice President Harris’s Stance on the Gaza Conflict
Woodward’s book also discusses Vice President Kamala Harris, highlighting her support for Biden’s stance but noting her limited influence on foreign policy. In July, Harris used strong language to criticize Israel’s handling of the Gaza conflict, but her public statements were reportedly much friendlier than her private conversations with Netanyahu.
