What’s happening:

President Joe Biden’s recent comments at a campaign event have sparked discussions about whether his administration’s staunch support for Israel is waning, especially in light of his criticism of Israeli government actions and approaches to the Palestinian conflict.

Why it matters:

Biden’s statements hold significant weight as they could signal a shift in the long-standing US-Israel relationship and influence both domestic and international political dynamics.

What Biden said:

The President expressed concerns regarding the current Israeli government, labeling it as the most conservative in history and challenging its stance on a two-state solution. He also underscored the need for Israel to make changes that would strengthen the Palestinian Authority and hinted at global frustration with Israel’s military tactics.

But, there’s more:

Despite the critical headlines, Biden also reaffirmed his support for Israel’s right to defend itself against Hamas, condemning the group’s actions and reiterating the US’s unwavering commitment to Israel’s security.

Behind the scenes:

These seemingly conflicting messages may be reconciled by understanding Biden’s domestic political considerations, as he navigates the preferences of his Democratic base ahead of the 2024 presidential election while also maintaining a strong stance against terrorism.

The bigger picture:

The focus on Biden’s more critical comments about Israel’s government and military actions may stem from the media’s interest in any indication of discord between the two allies, rather than a change in the fundamental dynamics of the US-Israel relationship.

The bottom line:

While Biden’s recent criticisms of Israeli policies have drawn attention, his overall support for Israel’s right to take action against Hamas remains firm. However, domestic political pressures in the US are clearly influencing the public discourse between these two wartime allies.

This story was first published on jpost.com.