Stories
Biden Nearly Cut Off Netanyahu Over Gaza War, Former Advisor Reveals
- •Joe Biden almost halted US military aid to Israel in spring 2024 due to extreme frustration with Benjamin Netanyahu over the Gaza war, according to former top Middle East advisor Brett McGurk.
- •McGurk's memoir 'Brink' details the near-rupture in the relationship, with Biden struggling to balance support for Israel with concerns over civilian casualties and humanitarian aid.
- •Tensions peaked after an Israeli strike killed World Central Kitchen aid workers, leading Biden to confront Netanyahu, asking if he thought Biden was "Santa Claus" and threatening to cut aid.
- •An impending Iranian missile attack on Israel shifted the dynamic, with Biden deciding to help defend Israel, preventing a full break despite his anger.
- •The episode did not end disagreements, with Biden later suspending certain heavy bomb supplies, and negotiations for a ceasefire continued until a deal was secured with assistance from incoming president Donald Trump.
Key Questions Answered
Joe Biden grew completely frustrated with Benjamin Netanyahu over the escalating Gaza war, civilian casualties, and humanitarian concerns. The crisis deepened after an Israeli strike killed seven aid workers in a World Central Kitchen convoy on April 1, 2024, prompting an enraged Biden to question whether military assistance should be withdrawn.
Before the dispute could result in a complete rupture, Iran prepared a massive barrage of missiles and drones against Israel. Despite his anger, Biden decided the United States had to defend its ally and helped intercept the incoming strikes, later urging Netanyahu to "Take the win" instead of launching a major retaliatory escalation.
Negotiations continued throughout Biden's final months in office, creating the necessary diplomatic framework. The final deal was eventually secured shortly before Biden left office with essential backing and pressure from incoming president Donald Trump and his special envoy Steve Witkoff.
