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In a candid statement at the White House, President Joe Biden questioned whether Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is genuinely committed to achieving peace in the Middle East or if he is maneuvering to influence the 2024 US presidential election. "No administration has helped Israel more than I have. None. None, none. And I think Bibi should remember that," Biden remarked, using Netanyahu's nickname. He added, "And whether he's trying to influence the election, I don't know - but I'm not counting on that."

Biden's comments came in response to Democratic Senator Chris Murphy of Connecticut, who expressed concerns on CNN that Netanyahu might be prioritizing American political dynamics over a peace deal. The two leaders have historically had a textured relationship, which has become increasingly strained as their approaches to the Israel-Gaza war diverge, impacting their political trajectories.

Biden's administration has been advocating for a ceasefire in Gaza for months, but despite repeated diplomatic efforts by Secretary of State Antony Blinken, an agreement has yet to be reached. Meanwhile, Netanyahu has publicly shown resistance to the prospect, even as U.S. and Israeli officials privately continue to explore potential agreements.

Israel has recently escalated its military operations, launching a ground incursion into Lebanon against Hezbollah and conducting strikes in Gaza. The region is also on edge following Iran's recent ballistic missile attack, with Israel promising retaliation. Biden noted that a response to Iran is still under consideration, but hinted against targeting Iran's oilfields, suggesting, "I think if I were in their shoes, I'd be thinking about other alternatives than striking oilfields."

Biden dismissed the notion that he was seeking a meeting with Netanyahu to discuss Iran's actions, stating, "I'm assuming when they make a decision on how they're going to respond, we will then have a discussion." However, Netanyahu's growing resistance to Biden's diplomatic efforts is evident, with Biden publicly delaying the delivery of heavy bombs to Israel while continuously voicing concerns over a possible all-out war in the Middle East.

Despite these tensions, Biden remains a staunch supporter of Israel following the attacks by Hamas on October 7. He has consistently backed enhanced US arms transfers to Israel, though he has urged caution to avoid civilian casualties. The US military has also ramped up its presence in the region to shield Israel from attacks by various groups, including Hamas, Hezbollah, and Iranian-backed forces.

Recently, Biden indicated that discussions are ongoing with Israel regarding potential strikes on Iran's oil infrastructure. This remark prompted a spike in oil prices, though Biden did not clarify if the talks were internal or directly with Israel.

Vice President Kamala Harris has maintained alignment on arms sales but has been a more vocal advocate for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and has condemned civilian casualties in the conflict.