Biden’s Support for Israel Under Scrutiny as Diplomatic Costs Mount
The unwavering support for Israel’s actions in Gaza threatens to isolate the Biden administration on the global stage.
President Joe Biden’s steadfast support for Israel’s right to defend itself against Hamas has come under scrutiny, as critics argue that it may impose a diplomatic cost on the United States. While Biden acknowledges Israeli excesses and urges Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to protect innocent Palestinian lives, his unwavering stance has led to growing hostility towards the US in many countries. As the international community calls for a cease-fire in Gaza, the US finds itself virtually alone in opposing such resolutions at the United Nations. This isolation raises concerns about the administration’s ability to repair ties with allies and partners, and the potential impact on US leadership in the world.
United States’ Isolation in International Forums
The United States has long stood alone in its support for Israel at the United Nations, particularly when it comes to issues related to Palestine. The recent conflict in Gaza has once again highlighted this isolation, as the US finds itself in a small minority opposing resolutions calling for a cease-fire. Only nine other countries, including Czechia among NATO members, joined the US in voting against the resolution. This isolation not only undermines the US’s credibility but also makes it harder to garner support on other important issues.
Israel’s Retaliation and the Biden Administration’s Credibility
Israel’s retaliation against militant attacks is not a new phenomenon. While the scale of the recent Hamas attack was unprecedented, the pattern of Israel’s reaction and continued military operations is familiar. Despite criticism, the Biden administration has not lost credibility, as it has successfully persuaded Israel to pause combat operations and allow aid into Gaza. However, some argue that more significant actions are needed to demonstrate the administration’s commitment to international humanitarian law.
Internal Criticism of Biden’s Support for Israel
Not only are foreign partners urging the Biden administration to do more, but some White House, State Department, and US aid officials have also gone public with their objections to the administration’s unwavering support for Israel. They argue that the Gaza conflict could have broader ramifications for US leadership, particularly in its efforts to woo the Global South away from Russia and China. The perceived double standards in the US’s approach to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and Israel’s actions in Gaza make it harder for the administration to maintain its argument.
Arab and Regional Unhappiness
Key partners in the Middle East, such as Jordan, have expressed deep dissatisfaction with the Biden administration’s stance on Israel. Jordan’s Foreign Minister, Ayman Safadi, has been particularly outspoken, criticizing the US for not considering the future of Gaza and the impact of Israel’s aggression. While the administration insists that its support for Israel has not resulted in any changes in cooperation or stances on unrelated matters, there is growing concern that this unhappiness could scuttle any progress in building long-term peace between Israelis and Palestinians.
Biden’s Evolving Position and International Support
The Biden administration’s position on Israel’s actions in Gaza has evolved since the start of the conflict. While initially emphasizing Israel’s right to self-defense, the administration has increasingly called for actions that protect civilians and respect international humanitarian law. The administration has faced criticism both domestically and internationally, leading to President Biden warning that Israel is losing international support. Biden’s comments have raised questions about the US’s stance on Israel and its commitment to holding the Israeli government accountable.
Conclusion: President Biden’s unwavering support for Israel’s actions in Gaza has come at a diplomatic cost. The US finds itself increasingly isolated on the global stage, particularly in international forums such as the United Nations. While some argue that the administration’s support for Israel demonstrates its commitment to standing by friends, others believe that the US needs to take bolder actions to show the world that it can follow words with deeds. As the conflict continues, the Biden administration faces the challenge of balancing its support for Israel with the need to maintain its credibility and leadership in the international community.