National Security Adviser Likens Reporter’s Question to Loaded Query
Peter’s inquiry stemmed from an NBC News report that suggested Biden had reacted angrily and used strong language in a private meeting in response to declining poll numbers in crucial battleground states, particularly due to his handling of the Israel-Hamas conflict.
Sullivan challenged the premise of Doocy’s question by asserting that he had never witnessed President Biden reacting vociferously or using expletives in response to either polling data or the situation at hand. Doocy’s line of questioning aimed to discern whether Biden’s purported frustration was targeted at Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Hamas, or the impact of the conflict on his popularity.
During the interaction, Sullivan not only disputed the accuracy of the report but also raised doubts about the fairness of such scrutiny. He also addressed a separate query from Doocy about the frequency of direct communication between President Biden and Prime Minister Netanyahu, highlighting the regular interactions between their respective teams and emphasizing Biden’s reserved approach to direct contact for crucial junctures.
The engagement between Doocy and Sullivan sheds light on the complex and intricate dynamics of U.S.-Israel relations, underscoring the significance of personal communication between the leaders. Sullivan’s responses indicate a strategic and thought-out diplomatic approach aligned with broader national interests.