Joe Biden’s tone on Israel has been hardening in recent days, but when he called the country’s response in the Gaza Strip “over the top” this week, the US president crossed into new territory.
The comments made Thursday were the strongest by the US leader since Israel launched its barrage on Gaza following Hamas’ October 7 attacks — leaving the White House quietly scrambling to temper their effect.
The episode reflects the growing divide between the Democratic president and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition government which includes far-right ministers.