The Republican led House of Representatives is set to vote this week on a measure that condemns President Joe Biden for urging Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to immediately call for a ceasefire in Gaza.
Rep. Maria Salazar (R-Fla.) introduced the three-page measure, which criticizes “efforts to exert one-sided pressure on Israel regarding Gaza.” It references a White House summary of a call between Biden and Netanyahu, in which Biden “underscored that an immediate ceasefire is crucial to stabilize and improve the humanitarian situation and protect innocent civilians.”
The measure further criticizes Biden for permitting the passage of a UN Security Council resolution that calls for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.
During a tense conversation with Netanyahu on Thursday, Axios reports that Biden gave Netanyahu an ultimatum, warning that if Israel does not alter its approach in Gaza, “we won’t be able to support you.” Vice President Kamala Harris later described the 30-minute discussion as “candid and frank.”
Biden reportedly demanded that Netanyahu expedite humanitarian efforts in Gaza by immediately opening the Erez crossing to ease access to the enclave’s north. Biden also pushed his Israeli counterpart to allow the use of Ashdod Port for aid deliveries.
A few hours later, these measures were approved by the Israeli cabinet.
