Biden deputy national security adviser lifts the fog of war in Israel
Oct 13, 2023
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Jon Finer, Biden's deputy national security adviser, discusses the approach to the war in Israel, balancing support for Israel with concerns about extreme response, Biden's warnings to Iran, and whether America is at war with Hamas.
The Biden administration aims to strike a balance between supporting Israel and expressing concerns about an extreme response to the war in Israel.
Efforts are focused on deescalating tensions, preventing further involvement, and supporting Israel militarily and diplomatically.
Deep dives
Biden's Moral Clarity and Support for Israel
President Biden swiftly and unequivocally denounced Hamas and expressed support for Israel following the terrorist attack in southern Israel by Hamas militants. Biden's moral clarity and righteous anger were evident in his speech, condemning the brutal actions carried out by Hamas. He emphasized that Israel, like any nation, has the right and duty to respond to such vicious attacks. The Biden administration firmly stands behind Israel in its efforts to defend itself, providing support and assistance.
Navigating the Complexities of the Conflict
While condemning Hamas, questions arise about Israel's response and potential violations of the laws of war. The White House aims to strike a balance between supporting Israel and expressing concerns about an extreme response. Challenges also emerge in finding and rescuing American hostages, preventing countries like Iran from exploiting the conflict, and maintaining aid to Israel in a dysfunctional Congress. These issues present difficult tactical, strategic, and moral dilemmas for President Biden and his administration.
Insights from John Feiner and the Complexity of Gaza
John Feiner, the President's Principal Deputy National Security Advisor, draws on his war correspondent and Gaza experiences to understand the current conflict. He highlights the extreme challenges faced by the civilian population in Gaza during warfare and emphasizes the distinction between Hamas and the majority of Palestinian people. The role of Iran is acknowledged, as they have supported and armed Hamas. While there is no evidence of Iran's specific involvement in the recent attacks, they bear a responsibility. Efforts are focused on deescalating tensions, preventing further involvement, and supporting Israel militarily and diplomatically.
Jon Finer, President Joe Biden’s principal deputy national security adviser, opens up to Playbook co-author and Deep Dive host Ryan Lizza about how the administration is approaching some of the thorniest problems related to the war in Israel, including: striking the right balance between supporting Israel and expressing concerns about an extreme response; Biden’s warnings to Iran; and whether America should now consider itself at war with Hamas.
Ryan Lizza is a Playbook co-author for POLITICO. Jon Finer is the White House deputy national security adviser. Kara Tabor is a producer for POLITICO audio. Alex Keeney is a senior producer for POLITICO audio.