Biden's Attempt to Avoid Shaking Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salma's Hand are Falling Apart after he Shook Benjamin Netanyahu's Meaty Paw

Prior to President Biden’s trip to the Middle East, the State Department issued an unusual communiqué to their foreign counterparts asking for their help to avoid any physical contact between foreign leaders and the president.1 According to an order from the U.S. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan and the Physician of the President Colonel Kevin O'Connor, the president would NOT be allowed to shake the hands of fellow world leaders. The communiqué was unusual in that it asked that world leaders help the president by reminding him of the order.

While on Air Force One Jake Sullivan explained to reporters, “We’re in a phase of the pandemic now where we are seeking to reduce contact and to increase masking … to minimize spread.” The New York Times2 pointed out that Sullivan’s concern was likely more political than medical as the president had made it clear he would NEVER shake the hand of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman - someone Biden considers to be a murderer.3

Almost certainly in a move designed to make Biden’s life difficult Benjamin Netanyahu shook hands with the president - the only question remains will Biden shake the hand of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salma.4 The world awaits…