Recent comments made by Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and President Biden regarding Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's handling of the war in Gaza have sparked mixed reactions among Israelis, particularly those in Jerusalem's Machane Yehuda food market.
Shoppers at the bustling market expressed disappointment with Schumer's call for new elections in Israel, with one individual stating, 'I don't think it's Schumer's place to comment on the politics in Israel or tell us we need to do a re-election.' Another shopper emphasized that Israel is a democracy and should be allowed to handle its internal affairs independently.
Regarding President Biden's phone call to Netanyahu and his demand for a delegation to discuss Israel's strategy in Gaza, some Israelis felt that Biden was turning on Israel for his own political interests ahead of the U.S. national elections. One interviewee mentioned, 'He, Biden, wants to win the next U.S. election,' implying that Biden's actions were strategic rather than genuinely supportive of Israel.
Comparisons were drawn between President Trump and Biden, with one shopper praising Trump for understanding the alliance with Israel. However, others expressed distrust towards Biden, calling him a liar and questioning his mental acuity.
When asked about potential voting preferences in a hypothetical election scenario, opinions varied. While some individuals indicated they would still support Netanyahu despite recent events, others hesitated, citing the need for change and exploring alternative options.
Overall, the sentiments expressed by the Israeli public in Jerusalem's Machane Yehuda market reflect a mix of skepticism towards external political figures' involvement in Israeli affairs and a desire for leadership that prioritizes the country's best interests.
