Biden Officials Reveal Frustration as Netanyahu Defies US Pressure on Gaza and Lebanon War

A detailed investigation by The New Yorker reveals significant frustration within the Biden administration over Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's handling of the Gaza and Lebanon conflict. Despite intense pressure from senior US officials, including National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan, Deputy John Finer, Secretary of State Antony Blinken, and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, Netanyahu maintained Israel's strategic autonomy and continued military operations based on Israeli security interests rather than US demands.

The report highlights multiple instances where the US considered applying stronger pressure on Israel, such as before the planned operation in Rafah in spring 2024 and again in July. However, President Joe Biden refrained from escalating tensions due to concerns over the fate of hostages, Israel's security, and the prospects for ceasefire negotiations. Former US officials expressed frustration that Israel did not fully disclose its war timelines or intentions, with Finer stating it became clear Israel withheld full plans from Washington.

Tensions peaked during exchanges between Blinken and Ron Dermer, Netanyahu's close associate, over the expected duration of fighting. The killing of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah further strained US-Israel relations, as Biden reportedly felt "humiliated" by the operation being conducted without significant US warning, just days after calls for a three-week ceasefire with Hezbollah. Despite this, the US avoided public criticism and stood by Israel amid fears of regional escalation.

The investigation also details Biden's direct involvement, including his repeated rejection of proposals to use arms shipments as leverage over Israel. Sullivan described the administration's position as a "trap," caught between pressing Israel and risking hostage safety or ceasefire talks. While US officials privately criticized the extensive destruction and civilian casualties in Gaza, they ultimately failed to influence Israel's military approach.

Biden even contemplated addressing the Israeli public to caution against pursuing a "total victory," but after Netanyahu and Dermer indicated serious consideration of a hostage deal, the speech was revised to encourage Israel to accept the agreement. Overall, the report paints a picture of ongoing conflict between a US administration seeking to limit Israel's operational freedom and a prime minister determined to retain control, with Biden officials admitting Netanyahu did not conform to Washington's expectations and prioritized Israeli interests throughout the war.