Biden Weighs Israel Visit
In Washington D.C. President Joe Biden found himself at a crossroads on Monday, contemplating Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu‘s invitation amid escalating conflict with Hamas. Abandoning his Colorado trip for 2024 re-election campaigning, Biden met with his national security team at the White House.
Netanyahu extended the invitation following a devastating October 7th Hamas attack that claimed over 1,400 lives. The White House acknowledged the invitation without confirming travel details, aware of the heightened sensitivity with Israel considering a Gaza ground invasion and ongoing air artillery resulting in over 2,750 casualties, as per the health ministry.
A visit to Israel carries both political significance and security risks. On monday, during Blinken’s Jerusalem visit, air raid sirens forced a bunker retreat, underscoring regional volatility.
President Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris were briefed by intelligence luminaries, including CIA chief Bill Burns, Director of National Intelligence Avril Haines, and National Security Advisor Jake sullivan, in a high-level Oval Office meeting.
Biden has unwavering support Israel while stressing civilian protection amid their offensive in Gaza.
In response to the crisis, Biden spoke with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, emphasizing conflict containment and humanitarian aid for Gaza.
Russian President Vladimir Putin communicated with Netanyahu and al-Sisi. Israel has rejected a temporary ceasefire at the Rafah border crossing, the sole one outside Israeli control.
National Security Council Spokesman John Kirby confirmed Netanyahu’s invitation but disclosed no travel plans. Biden and Netanyahu’s relationship has improved since their New York meeting in September, following recent Hamas attacks.
The US has deployed two aircraft carriers to show commitment, and Biden warned Iran and Hezbollah against involvement.
Biden postponed his Colorado trip, focused on economic revival and environmental initiatives.
This wouldn’t be Biden’s first high-risk international visit. In February, he secretly traveled to Ukraine during the Putin-led invasion. His last Israel visit was in July 2022. The world now awaits Biden’s decision on Prime Minister Netanyahu’s invitation as the crisis unfolds.
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