US President Meets Israeli Leader Amid Growing Conflict and Political Shifts
On July 25, US President Joe Biden pressed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for a ceasefire in the ongoing Gaza conflict during talks at the White House. The discussions marked the first in-person meeting between the two leaders since Biden visited Israel following the October 7 Hamas attack. While gaps remain in the ceasefire negotiations, White House national security spokesperson John Kirby noted that both sides are closer than ever to an agreement, although compromises are still necessary.
Biden’s call for a ceasefire comes as political pressure mounts on his administration. On July 21, Biden stepped aside from the 2024 race, endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic nominee. Harris is scheduled to meet Netanyahu later the same day, with many watching for indications of how her stance on the Gaza conflict might evolve if she becomes president.
The US has long been a key ally of Israel, supplying arms and shielding the country from UN scrutiny. However, the Gaza conflict has caused internal divisions, with Democratic Party members and voters, particularly Arab-Americans, expressing concerns over US support for Israel’s actions in Gaza. The violence has resulted in over 39,000 deaths in Gaza, and the prospect of a ceasefire remains contentious.
