In a stunning display of political disregard, the Biden administration showed just how little respect it holds for one of America’s closest allies, Israel, during a recent visit from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The leaders of the free world—Joe Biden and Kamala Harris—were conspicuously absent at the airport to greet Netanyahu, signaling a slap in the face to both the prime minister and to the value of the U.S.-Israel relationship. To add insult to injury, Harris was absent from presiding over the Senate during Netanyahu’s significant address, which was a prime opportunity to fortify ties amidst the rising tide of antisemitism and radical activism back home.
As Netanyahu delivered an impactful speech filled with pointed critiques of anti-Israel elements in the United States, certain Democrats (Rashida Tlaib being the most visible) chose to flaunt their ignorance. Tlaib, unfazed by the moment, wielded a paddle adorned with accusations of genocide aimed at Israel, providing a perfect snapshot of the absurdity and offense that some choose to display during moments of international importance. It’s as if reading the room is not part of the curriculum for these progressive activists.
WATCH: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu meets with outgoing President Joe Biden at the White House. pic.twitter.com/MOzCmKGM1a
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In a comical twist, Biden had initially canceled their meeting, citing a COVID diagnosis, raising eyebrows regarding the severity of his illness. Fast forward to Thursday, and the day finally came when Biden did meet with Netanyahu at the White House, but not without a notable level of restraint from the prime minister. While Netanyahu maintained a politically correct demeanor, the implication of his comments about knowing every Israeli prime minister for 50 years served as a not-so-subtle jab at Biden’s age—a gentle reminder of the inevitable worries surrounding presidential competence.
During their encounter, Biden’s attempts at humor fell flat, exemplifying how disconnected he is from the realities around him. With reporters ushered out and no questions answered, his demeanor shifted from politician to puzzled elder, complete with that trademark, vacant stare. It seemed almost surreal that a mere 10 days was no longer an obstacle for world leaders post-COVID recovery, as if Biden’s health concerns evaporated quickly for diplomacy.
The ironic undertones of this meeting reveal a deeper narrative. The Biden administration, much like its Obama predecessor, attempted to sideline Netanyahu mere months ago, revealing that their allegiance to political maneuvering trumps their support for a key ally. In a moment of irony richer than a Malbec, Biden, who had previously boasted about the “come to Jesus” meeting with Netanyahu, now finds himself discarded by his party members, who have decided that he is no longer a viable asset in their power struggle. As he potentially faces political oblivion, Netanyahu continues to stand tall, embodying the enduring spirit of leadership while Biden’s fate hangs by a thread.
In summary, what transpired in Washington not only highlighted the awkwardness of the current U.S. administration but also underscored the resilience of leaders like Netanyahu, who have learned to navigate the choppy waters of global politics with an eye on the long game. If there’s one thing to take away from this debacle, it’s that leaders who prioritize their principles over their party’s whims tend to emerge victorious in the end. The real comedy here is watching Biden stumble through this political faux pas while Netanyahu savours the sweet taste of vindication.