Biden and Netanyahu Relationship Frays Amid Gaza War Disagreements
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Biden and Netanyahu have not spoken in 3 weeks amid a growing split over Israel's war in Gaza. The White House is unhappy with Netanyahu's lack of vision for ending the conflict.
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The two leaders last spoke on Dec 23, which Biden reportedly ended abruptly after Netanyahu refused to release tax funds to the Palestinian Authority.
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Israel has defied US calls to allow more aid into Gaza, reduce civilian casualties, and discuss involving the PA in Gaza post-Hamas rule. Israeli officials remain largely unmoved by US frustration.
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Hardline Israeli ministers like Bezalel Smotrich have doubled down on blocking funds to the PA despite pressure from the US Secretary of State. Netanyahu seems unwilling to rein them in.
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Some experts believe Netanyahu is prolonging the Gaza war to retain support of right-wing allies in his governing coalition and stay in power. He appears to be "playing both sides."