National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan recently addressed questions during a White House press briefing regarding reports about President Biden's behavior and communication with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
A White House correspondent raised concerns about a news report suggesting that President Biden had become angry and anxious over his re-election efforts, particularly in response to polling data related to his handling of the Israel-Hamas conflict. The report alleged that Biden had shouted and sworn during a private meeting at the White House in January.
When asked about this report, Sullivan likened the question to a loaded inquiry, stating that he had never witnessed the President react in such a manner. He emphasized that the specific report in question was not accurate from his perspective.
Additionally, Sullivan addressed inquiries about the frequency of phone calls between President Biden and Prime Minister Netanyahu. He explained that while there had been a 32-day gap between their last calls, communication between their teams occurred daily at various levels. Sullivan clarified that Biden strategically reserved direct calls to the Prime Minister for key moments deemed necessary.
Sullivan also highlighted that Prime Minister Netanyahu had the ability to contact President Biden directly if needed, and Biden had never declined a call from Netanyahu during the 32-day period in question.
Overall, Sullivan's responses aimed to provide clarity on the President's behavior and communication practices, emphasizing ongoing engagement with Israeli counterparts and strategic decision-making regarding direct communication with world leaders.
