US-Israel Relations Amid Gaza Conflict
The United States has taken a public distance from Israel as never before over the Gaza war, with the decisive test being Rafah and whether Israel heeds US warnings against an offensive in the packed city.
US Abstention at the Security Council
On Monday, the United States abstained at the Security Council, allowing a resolution to pass for the first time that called for an immediate ceasefire, infuriating Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
President Biden’s Stance
President Joe Biden has made it clear that he will not use cutting US military assistance to Israel as leverage, a stance noted by Netanyahu.
Expert Opinions
- Anelle Sheline, a former State Department fellow, criticized the Biden administration’s actions as “PR stunts” and expressed hope for real change.
- Michael Singh, managing director of the Washington Institute, highlighted Biden’s response at the United Nations and the impact of resolutions on Israel’s conflict prosecution.
- Stephen Wertheim, a senior fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, commented on US officials presenting alternatives to Israel on Rafah.
International Pressure and Political Dynamics
US criticism against Netanyahu is mounting, with Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer criticizing the conduct of the war and urging new elections. Biden is facing pressure from the left in his Democratic Party on Gaza.
Political Maneuvering
Netanyahu and Biden benefit from friction between them, with Netanyahu positioning himself as a figure who can stand up to the Americans while preserving US support.
Overall, the US-Israel relations amid the Gaza conflict are complex, with political interests playing a significant role in the dynamics between the two countries.