(The Hill) – Former President Trump blasted President Biden’s handling of the Israel-Hamas war during Thursday night’s debate, saying Biden has “become like a Palestinian” because of his criticism of Israel.
During a lengthy exchange about foreign policy, Biden outlined his administration’s push for a cease-fire in the fighting between Israel and Hamas. Biden argued Hamas is the one keeping a deal from being reached, something Trump disputed.
“Israel is the one. And you should let them go and let them go finish the job. He doesn’t want to do it,” Trump said.
“He’s become like a Palestinian, but hey, don’t like him because he’s a very bad Palestinian. He’s a weak one,” Trump added.
“I’ve never heard so much foolishness,” Biden responded
The president, in late May, announced a three-phase plan that included an initial pause in fighting, the withdrawal of Israeli forces from populated areas of Gaza, and the release of remaining hostages taken from Israel on Oct. 7.
It also included parameters for internally displaced Palestinians to return to their homes, and reconstruction efforts of the devastated coastal enclave.
Biden has sought to balance support for Israel in its war against Hamas with his frustrations over the killing of tens of thousands of Palestinians in Gaza in the fighting. His approach to the war has hurt his poll numbers with young voters and some minority voters in particular.
Trump has said Israel should “finish the problem” in Gaza, though he has warned that the Israelis are losing the public relations battle.
Trump has been critical of Netanyahu in the wake of the Oct. 7 attack, telling Time Magazine in an April interview that the prime minister “rightfully has been criticized for what took place.”