https://edition.cnn.com/2023/10/13/politics/donald-trump-israel-netanyahu-diplomacy/index.html
Trump’s original grievance-based analysis reflects a transactional, unorthodox approach to foreign policy that often prioritizes his own personal goals over a standard understanding of the national interest. It also highlighted a contrast with his potential 2024 election opponent. Biden reacted to the attack by using all of the tools of traditional statesmanship, including rhetoric, personal behind-the-scenes contacts with key foreign leaders and by mobilizing allies. Like Trump, Biden has had a personal and political beef with Netanyahu – but shelved his differences with him weeks before the attack and has been in constant contact with the prime minister since it occurred.
Biden is seeking to strike a balance. He has shown the most ardent support for Israel of any recent US president and acknowledged its desire to retaliate and reestablish its sense of security after the most shocking penetration of its borders and national psyche in 50 years. But Biden is also sending private and public signals to Netanyahu that Israel’s response should not infringe the laws of war and that he should consider the humanitarian consequences of an invasion of Gaza, as he seeks to prevent the war escalating into a dangerous regional conflict that could draw in the US.
Bibi will not be reelected, he is politically a sitting duck.
ReplyDeleteTrump will still be friends with Israel, but might take a tougher line with Houthis, and Iran. The Hezbollah and Iran are smart, they have become a thorn in Israel's side. It is important in military strategy to know your enemy. In fact, it was Israeli military haughtiness which underestimated hamas's capabilities, that led to the Intelligence failure.
Biden is trying to play both sides by publicly attacking Israel (just like anti-Zionism is anti-Semitism, attacking Bibi is attacking Israel) while practically sending it weapons and supplies.
ReplyDeleteHe has not shelved his differences and is now participating in calls for regime change.