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President Biden has expressed uncertainty about whether Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu is attempting to influence the US election by continuing military operations in both Gaza and Lebanon.

What’s the deal: During a press conference at the White House, President Biden was asked about some concerns raised by Democrats that claim Netanyahu may be ignoring calls for a ceasefire agreement because it could help Kamala Harris’s presidential campaign if the war stops.

President Biden responded, “No administration has helped Israel more than I have, none, none, none. And, I think Bibi should remember that. And whether he’s trying to influence the election, I don’t know. But I’m not counting on that.”

Biden also commented on talk that Israel is weighing options to strike Iran following their attack over the weekend. In a brief statement, Biden said, “The Israelis have not concluded what they’re going to do in terms of a strike. That’s under discussion. If I were in their shoes I’d be thinking about other alternatives than striking oil fields.”

The Biden/Netanyahu relationship: The relationship between President Biden and Prime Minister Netanyahu has grown increasingly strained as the war in Gaza has escalated. While Biden has long emphasized the US’s unwavering support for Israel, he has become visibly frustrated with Netanyahu’s handling of the conflict, particularly in relation to the heavy civilian casualties. Despite these calls, Netanyahu is more focused on his military objectives, which includes the complete destruction of Hamas.