Biden’s public message to Netanyahu worsened by Israel’s attack on Iran, US News reports
The actions overnight reflect poorly on President Biden.
Just days ago, he had strongly advised Israel against retaliating.
“Take the win,” the American president had told Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in the early hours of Sunday morning.
Stay updated on the latest Middle East news here
Benjamin Netanyahu has ignored Biden’s pleas. Pic: Reuters
This message was known publicly, alongside information from the White House and State Department.
The message from Washington to Israel was that the failed Iranian attack, with support from Jordan and Saudi Arabia, was a victory.
However, Israel has been disregarding American advice for a while. Biden’s influence over Gaza has its limits.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player
It became evident throughout the week that Netanyahu wasn’t going to bend to international pressure.
Many questioned the wisdom of Biden’s directive.
Israel had just experienced a significant attack committed by a nation intent on its destruction.
“Take the win”?! Many saw this as appeasement to Iran.
Diplomats visiting Israel understood that Netanyahu would disregard Biden’s advice and retaliate. The language began to shift from “don’t retaliate” to “minimize escalation.”
“We hope they do so in a way that does as little to escalate this as possible,” UK Foreign Secretary David Cameron said after meeting Netanyahu.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player
Cameron: Israel’s response ‘should be smart’
Western diplomats were informed by Israel that they were retaliating overnight, providing details of targets.
This week raises concerns about the Biden administration’s influence and strategy.
Biden’s public call for no retaliation was echoed by allies to prevent escalation.
But was it wise to make this call public? Some question if it undermined Israel’s ability to deter further attacks.
Stay updated with the latest news by following Sky News on WhatsApp
Perhaps a private call for restraint would have been more appropriate. Was making the message public a weakness that exposed Biden to failure?
For more information:
Israel appears to have carefully chosen response
How Biden watched Iranian attack – and what he told Netanyahu
Prepare for the next move.
Possibly, a gradual de-escalation through targeted strikes, each less significant than the previous – a way for both sides to save face and maintain deterrence.
This is the intricate nature of conflict.
