Cruz, White House trade barbs over Biden administration’s Israel response: ‘That is a lie’

Former Republican presidential candidate Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) and the White House exchanged sharp words on Wednesday over the Biden administration’s response to a conflict between Israel and Palestinians.

In a tweet, Cruz accused President Joe Biden of “diminishing Israel’s sovereignty,” stating the administration cut off arms sales to the country and imposed traditional preconditions on bilateral negotiations with Palestinian leaders.

The White House quickly responded to Cruz’s claim, dubbing it “a lie.” A spokesperson noted that the Biden administration has stood by its commitments to Israel’s security, evidenced by the recent approval of a $735 million arms sale and manufacturing license.

Specifically, the White House accused Cruz of intentionally mischaracterizing the Biden administration’s support for a “sustainable and just peace, consistent with previous U.S. approaches.” Ultimately, the White House asserted that “the United States remains committed to a two-state solution that ensures the future of a democratic, Jewish state of Israel living side-by-side in peace and security with an independent and viable Palestine.”