Biden has generally been supporting Israel’s security while also pressing for more restraint in Gaza and pushing for hostage releases and humanitarian aid. At the same time, his approach has been criticized from both sides: some say he backed Israel too strongly, while others say he publicly urged caution but did not impose enough consequences.

What he’s doing

  • Supporting Israel’s right to defend itself and maintaining military/diplomatic backing.
  • Pushing for hostage negotiations and ceasefire efforts.
  • Urging Israel to avoid steps he sees as escalating or undermining a future two-state solution, like permanent occupation or settlement expansion.
  • Condemning antisemitism and boosting security for Jewish institutions in the U.S.

The tension

His policy has been a balancing act: strong support for Israel’s security, but growing public concern about civilian harm in Gaza. That’s why people often describe his stance as “supportive of Israel, but increasingly critical of how the war is being fought.”

In plain English

He’s not trying to abandon Israel; he’s trying to back it while also limiting the political and humanitarian fallout of the war. That has made him a target of criticism from pro-Israel hawks, Gaza ceasefire advocates, and voters who think U.S. policy is inconsistent.

Meta description: Biden’s Israel policy mixes military and diplomatic support with pressure for restraint, hostage releases, and a two-state solution.