US President Joe Biden has criticized former President Donald Trump in response to questions about “disinformation” spread by the Republican politician regarding the government’s response to two recent deadly storms.
Trump, who is aiming for a return to the White House in the upcoming November presidential election, has accused the Democratic administration of severely mishandling the response to both natural disasters that occurred in the last month.
In September, Hurricane Helene claimed the lives of over 230 people, making it the deadliest storm to hit the US mainland since Hurricane Katrina in 2005.
As of Friday, Hurricane Milton has resulted in at least 16 fatalities and has caused significant damage across parts of Florida.
During a brief session with reporters on Thursday to discuss the impact of Hurricane Milton, Biden was questioned about Trump’s comments, which a journalist referred to as “disinformation,” and whether he had discussed the natural disasters with him.
“Are you kidding me?” Biden replied, before addressing Trump directly: “Mr. President Trump—former President Trump, get a life, man. Help these people.”
“The American public and media should hold Trump responsible for his statements,” Biden stated, noting that he had no plans to talk with Donald Trump.
In his comments regarding Hurricane Milton, which ravaged Florida this week, Biden blamed “careless, irresponsible, and continuous disinformation and outright lies” for the death threats reportedly received by emergency response workers.
Biden appeared frustrated by questions from journalists that began after his brief five-minute address.
He also dismissed a question about Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his plans to attack Iran, cryptically saying that “he’s coming over to assist with the storm.”
Netanyahu had canceled a scheduled visit to Washington this week by Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, as previously reported by Axios.
The military official was expected to discuss Israel’s plans to attack Iranian sites in a cycle of retaliation with Tehran.
Biden has advised Israel against attacking Iranian oil and nuclear facilities.
The White House has reportedly proposed a “support package” to Israel that includes military assistance and diplomatic protection, provided it follows this request.
