Biden Slams Netanyahu in Memoir, Citing 'Flexible' Truth and Trump-like Tendencies

Former U.S. President Joe Biden has sharply criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in his upcoming memoir, "Promise Me, America." Excerpts published in The Wall Street Journal reveal Biden's distrust of Netanyahu, noting a concern that the Israeli leader's conduct resembled that of then-U.S. President Donald Trump. Biden wrote that Netanyahu "could treat truth with great flexibility" and was willing to bend democratic institutions to serve his personal needs.

The book's revelations come amid a strained relationship between Biden and Netanyahu, particularly concerning the conduct of the war in Gaza and the impact on Palestinian civilians. Biden details conversations with Netanyahu after the October 7th Hamas attack, during which he urged Israel to minimize civilian casualties. According to Biden, Netanyahu promised to take action but failed to follow through, allegedly prioritizing short-term political gains over Israel's long-term interests.

Despite his criticisms, Biden reaffirms his unwavering support for Israel following the October 7th attacks, calling it the most severe assault on the Jewish people since the Holocaust. However, he expresses deep regret over the high number of Palestinian civilian deaths and the suffering inflicted on those uninvolved with Hamas, stating, "I carry that with me."

The 480-page memoir covers Biden's four years in the White House from 2021 to 2025 and his interactions with global leaders. He also offers candid descriptions of other world leaders, characterizing Russian President Vladimir Putin as having an "angry and childish tone" and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy as sometimes fickle and stubborn in private discussions. The book is also expected to address Biden's decision to run for re-election and his 2024 presidential campaign.