Biden Pressured Netanyahu After October 7 Attacks, New Book Reveals
Brett McGurk's upcoming book, Brink: Inside the Race to Free the October 7th Hostages, reveals that President Joe Biden pressured Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu shortly after the October 7 terror attacks. McGurk, who was the National Security Council Coordinator under Biden, details a blunt phone call where Biden expressed concerns about a potential escalation of violence in the region.
During the call, McGurk recounts that Biden was worried about Israel facing what could be the largest ballistic-missile attack in history if a ceasefire with Hamas was not achieved. The urgency of the situation was compounded by the political implications for Biden's 2024 presidential campaign, as his team sought to project strength and decisiveness in the face of escalating tensions.
The conversation followed a tense Oval Office meeting that included Secretary of State Antony Blinken and National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan. McGurk describes Biden's frustration leading up to the call, recalling that he asked, "What the f--- am I telling this guy?" Upon speaking with Netanyahu, Biden confronted him directly, saying, "Bibi, man, what the f--- are you doing?"
Biden's Ultimatum on Military Support
Biden reportedly threatened to cut off military aid to Israel, emphasizing that he could leave the country to fend for itself. This warning was met with Netanyahu's assertion that Israel would defend itself independently. McGurk notes that Netanyahu interpreted Biden's remarks as a signal that military supplies might be reduced.
Approved for Dissemination
As the conversation progressed, Biden interrupted Netanyahu when he attempted to downplay the October 7 attacks as a result of miscommunication. Biden insisted on specific requests for humanitarian aid and the opening of additional crossings into northern Gaza. He firmly told Netanyahu, "I don't want to hear it, Bibi," indicating that while he would support Israel against Iran, the U.S. would also push to end the conflict and secure the release of hostages.
McGurk's book is set to be released on October 6, 2026, and it provides an insider's perspective on the high-stakes diplomatic interactions during a critical moment in U.S.-Israel relations. He reflects on the potential consequences of Biden's approach, suggesting that without the looming threat of an Iranian attack, the U.S. might have considered more drastic measures against Israel at that time.
