Biden criticizes Israel's Gaza strategy, warns of waning support

In an interview with MSNBC, Biden reiterated his support for Israel's right to defend itself following an attack by Hamas on October 7 last year. However, he stressed that Netanyahu needs to "pay more attention to the innocent victims who are dying because of these actions."

"These civilian casualties go against what Israel stands for, and I believe it's a significant mistake," Biden added.

Biden described any potential Israeli attack on Rafah, a city in the southern part of the Gaza Strip where over 1.3 million Palestinians have sought shelter, as a "red line." Nonetheless, he assured that he "will never abandon Israel" and will continue supporting the delivery of weapon systems essential for the Iron Dome, which protects Israeli civilians.

The American president also expressed his desire to convey his stance directly to the Israeli parliament, the Knesset, and did not dismiss the possibility of another visit to Israel for this purpose. However, He did not provide details on how or when such a visit might occur.

AP notes that Biden has already visited Israel following the Hamas attack on October 7. He has repeatedly cautioned Netanyahu that the growing number of civilian casualties in Gaza risks diminishing international support for Israel in its conflict with Hamas.