Last month, George Clooney called one of President Biden’s top aides to express his frustration over Biden’s criticism of the International Criminal Court actions against Israeli leaders, a case his wife Amal Clooney is involved in, as reported by The Washington Post.

Clooney spoke with Steve Ricchetti, a counselor to the president, about Biden’s use of the term “outrageous” in condemning the ICC’s arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, as well as senior Hamas figures. Clooney was also concerned about potential sanctions against the ICC, which could affect his wife.

This call occurred just before Clooney is set to appear at a Biden reelection fundraiser in Los Angeles with former President Barack Obama, TV host Jimmy Kimmel, and actress Julia Roberts. Despite concerns, Clooney plans to attend the fundraiser.

Biden Downplays Clooney’s Withdrawal

The Biden campaign downplayed worries about Clooney withdrawing. Clooney and the White House declined to comment.

Clooney, a longtime Democratic supporter, donated over $500,000 to Biden’s 2020 campaign and co-hosted a fundraiser that raised $7 million. Amal Clooney, an international human rights lawyer, confirmed she was helping the ICC investigate alleged war crimes by Israeli and Hamas leaders, supporting the ICC’s move.

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Biden and other leaders criticized the ICC’s actions, arguing they falsely equated Israel with Hamas. While initially open to sanctions, the administration later opposed them, working with Congress on alternative responses.

The conflict between Israel and Hamas has caused significant casualties and a humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Biden supports Israel’s right to self-defense but has criticized certain actions by Netanyahu’s government, leading to divisions within the Democratic Party.

Read more at The Washington Post.