Report: Biden Labels Netanyahu ‘Asshole’ in Private Talks

President Joe Biden has been expressing his dissatisfaction in private discussions, including those with campaign donors, over his unsuccessful attempts to influence Israel’s military strategy in Gaza, pointing to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as the main hindrance, according to five sources familiar with Biden’s remarks, as reported by NBC News.

Biden’s efforts to broker a ceasefire have been met with resistance from Netanyahu, who Biden reportedly described as challenging to negotiate with, causing him significant frustration. Those familiar with the conversations, who wished to remain anonymous, noted Biden’s exasperation with the ongoing situation, emphasizing that the conflict needs to end.

Despite Biden’s long-standing acquaintance with Netanyahu, his recent private comments have taken a more candid and critical tone than expected by some listeners. Biden has referred to Netanyahu with notable disdain, using phrases like “this guy” and even resorting to calling him an “asshole” in several discussions.

In a recent phone conversation with Netanyahu, Biden emphasized that any military action in Rafah should not proceed without a solid plan to protect and aid the Palestinians in the area, as stated by the White House. The conversation, which lasted 45 minutes, primarily revolved around a potential agreement between Israel and Hamas regarding the exchange of hostages for a ceasefire and the release of Palestinian prisoners, a topic that has seen multiple delays.

Biden’s critique of Israel’s actions in Gaza has become increasingly pointed, labeling the military offensive as “over the top” during a public statement on Thursday.