US President Joe Biden has shifted his stance when it comes to the continuing violence in the Middle East – pressuring Israel to end the fighting with Hamas militants.
As the conflict enters its tenth day, the White House says Biden expects a significant de-escalation today on the path to a ceasefire.
The comments signal a dramatic shift in the Biden administration’s stance on the violence.
In response, Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says he is determined to continue this operation until its objective is achieved and vows to restore quiet and security.
The US is a strong ally of Israel and has previously been staunchly opposed to being included in a joint statement due to be issued by the UN Security Council.
Just as I told the ambassadors here today, this is the inherent right of Israel. I very much appreciate the support of these governments, and I especially appreciate the support of our friend @POTUS Joe Biden, for the State of Israel's right to self-defense. pic.twitter.com/sEaPGXIwdS
— PM of Israel (@IsraeliPM) May 19, 2021
This all follows four rockets being fired from Lebanon into Israel over the past 24 hours. Israel’s military firing artillery at a number of targets in Lebanese territory in response.
Netanyahu added: “with every passing day we are striking at more of the terrorist organisations’ capabilities”. He also thanked the U-S and President Joe Biden for the support.
