On video: Biden in a message to Israel: Humanitarian aid to Gaza cannot be a bargaining chip/photo: Reuters
President Biden said in an interview with MSNBC that he would like to come to Israel again to address the Knesset and address the residents.
Biden refused to specify whether there are discussions on the subject.
"I don't want to address it beyond that," Biden noted.
He added that Israel has the right to defend itself and pursue Hamas, but stressed that Netanyahu "must, must, must" pay more attention to prevent harm to innocent civilians in Gaza.
"(Because of the harm to civilians) he hurts Israel more than he protects her. This is a mistake," said Biden.
Also, Biden was asked what he meant when he was heard saying that he would hold a "come to Jesus meeting" with Netanyahu and replied: "It's a phrase that is used in a serious way. Bibi knows what I meant."
President Biden in his State of the Nation Address, March 8, 2024/Reuters
Biden was asked if he has a red line when it comes to the IDF operation in Gaza and whether an operation in Rafah would be such a red line. He replied that he has a red line, but emphasized that he will not abandon Israel and will not stop the supply of weapons like an Iron Dome in a way that Israel cannot defend "But it is impossible for another 30,000 Palestinians to die in the war.
After the carpet bombings of World War II, the rules of war were changed.
The rules of war must be respected," he said.
The American president indicated that he wants a 6-week ceasefire during which hostages will be released and on which something can be built to continue. Biden said that many leaders he is talking to, including the leaders of Saudi Arabia, are ready for normalization with Israel. "What What happens after the war is what we need to focus on," said the American president. Biden said that he still believes that a deal can be reached to release the hostages and that he has not given up on that. "The head of the CIA is in the area now and he is still talking about it," said Biden .
More on the same topic:
Gaza war
War of Iron Swords