Senator Chuck Schumer’s call for new elections in Israel has garnered praise from President Biden, who described the speech as “a good speech” during a meeting with the Irish prime minister at The White House on Friday.
In his speech on the Senate floor, Schumer criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for his handling of the conflict with Hamas, stating that Netanyahu had prioritized his political survival over the best interests of Israel. Schumer called for new elections as the only way to allow for a healthy decision-making process about the future of the country.
The senator’s remarks have sparked controversy in Israel, with critics accusing him of inappropriate foreign intervention in the country’s internal politics during a time of war. However, President Biden’s general embrace of Schumer’s speech is likely to further strain the relationship between the U.S. and Israeli leaders.
During the meeting with the Irish prime minister, Biden also discussed the situation in Gaza and the need for a ceasefire to allow for the delivery of humanitarian aid and the release of hostages. Both leaders expressed support for a two-state solution as the path to lasting peace and security in the region.
The ongoing conflict in the Middle East continues to be a point of contention for world leaders, with calls for diplomatic solutions and international intervention growing louder.