In a series of interviews over the weekend, the ongoing war in Gaza intensified tensions between US President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

During an interview with MSNBC on Saturday, President Biden criticized Netanyahu’s approach, arguing that it was causing more harm than good to Israel. He called for an immediate ceasefire and the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas. Biden’s concerns stemmed from the high number of civilian casualties in Gaza, surpassing 31,000 lives lost.

Netanyahu swiftly responded, defending his policies in Gaza and dismissing Biden’s criticism. He specifically defended his plans for a ground operation in Rafah, a move warned against by Biden and other world leaders. In an interview with Politico and German media outlet Bild, Netanyahu refuted claims that his policies were against the interests of Israelis.

“I don’t know exactly what the president meant, but if he meant by that, that I’m pursuing private policies against the wish of the majority of Israelis, and that this is hurting the interests of Israel then he’s wrong on both counts,” Netanyahu stated.

The situation in Rafah, with an estimated 1.5 million Palestinians sheltering amidst bombardment, remains dire. Families are facing severe shortages of essentials and the constant threat of violence.

During an interview with Fox Channel on Monday, Netanyahu emphasized the necessity of destroying Hamas and claimed agreement with Biden on this stance, asserting there is no “middle way.” He also indicated plans to ensure the safe departure of civilians from Rafah before military action.

Divisions between the US and Israel were laid bare over the weekend, with Biden suggesting Netanyahu was “hurting Israel more than helping” by disregarding civilian casualties in Gaza. Netanyahu remained resolute, vowing to proceed with military operations in Rafah, where displaced Palestinians seek refuge.

Israeli officials have not ruled out an offensive in Rafah during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan, which commenced on Sunday and will last for four weeks.