What’s happening:
US President Joe Biden has expressed concerns over Israel’s actions in Gaza, indicating that the country’s international support could wane due to what he termed indiscriminate bombing.
Why it matters:
Biden’s comments represent a significant shift in tone from the traditionally steadfast US support for Israel, suggesting possible tensions between the two nations over the handling of the conflict with Hamas.
Details:
During a campaign event, Biden warned that Israel is starting to lose that support from the international community, including allies in the European Union. He criticized the Israeli government’s current approach to the conflict, implying that civilian targets in Gaza are being hit unnecessarily. These remarks come amid speculation that Biden may urge Israel to alter its military strategy in Gaza.
The bigger picture:
This criticism aligns with Biden’s broader foreign policy objectives, which include a renewed push for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. He contrasted this vision with the stance of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government, which he described as the most conservative in Israel’s history.
Netanyahu’s response:
Despite acknowledging US support for Israel’s military efforts against Hamas, Netanyahu rebuffed any notion of a reformed Palestinian Authority gaining control in Gaza post-conflict. He emphasized Israel’s security and the prevention of governance by entities that support terrorism.
US involvement:
Jake Sullivan, the US National Security Adviser, is expected to visit Israel, signaling continued US engagement in the region. Sullivan has voiced opposition to a reoccupation of Gaza and has advocated for an interim security arrangement alongside efforts for a long-term political solution.
Strategic considerations:
While the US military has supported Israel’s campaign in Gaza, there is a concurrent emphasis on the strategic importance of protecting Palestinian civilians, highlighting the need for a balanced approach in military operations.
This story was first published on jpost.com.