Netanyahu making a 'mistake' on Gaza, says Biden
What's the story
United States President Joe Biden has publicly expressed his disapproval of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's strategy in the ongoing Gaza conflict. In an interview with Univision, a US Spanish-language TV network, Biden communicated his disagreement with the tactics employed by Israel in its military operation in Gaza. This comes amid escalating tensions between Israel and Hamas.
Ceasefire advocacy
Biden urges ceasefire and humanitarian aid in Gaza
President Biden has urged Netanyahu to initiate a ceasefire in the embattled coastal region of Gaza. He suggested that Israel should allow unrestricted access to essential supplies such as food and medicine for six to eight weeks. This marks a significant shift from his previous stance, where he insisted Hamas should agree to a ceasefire and release hostages.
Aid appeal
Biden calls for increased humanitarian aid to Gaza
The US President has also intensified calls for Israel to allow more humanitarian aid into Gaza. He highlighted that countries including Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Egypt are prepared to provide supplies. "There's no excuse not to provide for the medical...food needs of...people...It should be done now," he added. Following Israel's temporary opening of the Erez Crossing and Ashdod port for aid delivery, Biden cautioned Netanyahu that the US's policies could change if Israel does not modify its actions in Gaza.
Ceasefire proposal
CIA Director proposes new ceasefire agreement
Meanwhile, Central Intelligence Agency Director Bill Burns presented a new proposal for a ceasefire agreement over the weekend. The proposal was delivered to negotiators in Cairo on Tuesday, but there has been no response from Hamas yet. US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan urged Qatar's Prime Minister, who has been mediating talks, to press Hamas for an immediate response.
Internal conflict
Rising tensions between Hamas and Palestinian Authority
Escalating tensions between Hamas and its Palestinian rivals have raised concerns about the future government in Gaza post-conflict. Recently, Hamas arrested several Palestinian Authority officials in Gaza, accusing them of collaborating with Israel. This incident marks the first major conflict between these two groups since the war began on October 7.