***

“Biden realized that Netanyahu was lying to him about the hostages,” the official told Haaretz. “He’s not saying it publicly yet, but in the meeting between them, he specifically told him, ‘Stop bullshitting me.’”

On Friday, a senior member of the Israeli negotiating team told Haaretz that Israeli defense chiefs believe Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is not interested in a hostage deal/cease-fire with Hamas. Israel’s Channel 12 also reported on a tense exchange between Netanyahu and the defense chiefs, in which Shin Bet head Ronen Bar said, “It feels like the prime minister doesn’t want the framework that’s on the table.” Turning to Netanyahu, he added that if that is the case, “you should tell us.”

Mossad chief David Barnea stressed to Netanyahu, “There is a deal on the table. If we delay, we could miss the opportunity. We have to take it.” Netanyahu, per the report, reacted angrily, accusing the defense chiefs of being “soft.”

  • Linkerbaan@lemmy.worldOP
    65·
    3 months ago

    I’d argue Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Jordan are far easier and more controllable outposts right now.

    An “ally” that doesn’t listen and engulfs the region in chaos only seems counterproductive. Reliable is the last word I’d attribute to israel.

    • recklessengagement@lemmy.world
      11·
      3 months ago

      Tbh we should just switch to Cypruss. Its a stones throw away, and we’ve got great relations. Unless the island thing is an issue…

      • LovingHippieCat@lemmy.world
        10·
        3 months ago

        Cyprus is a great idea but it’s ownership is also contested. Turkey and Greece fucking hate that the other claims ownership. Although the former Greek section is now it’s own country, but there’s still a small turkey section. Great idea, still contentious, even if less so.

    • solsangraal@lemmy.zipEnglish
      5·
      3 months ago

      lol and what’s the difference between all those countries and israel? and why would the US send mountains of weapons and cash to israel and much less to the other “allies”? hint: it rhymes with “schmuslims.”