The Biden administration finds itself walking a tightrope as it grapples with its support for Israel while expressing increasing frustration over the conduct of the war in Gaza.
This delicate dance comes to light as President Joe Biden alluded to “indiscriminate bombing” in Gaza, highlighting growing tensions with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government.
Background on the Conflict
The conflict escalated following a bloody assault by Hamas militants on Israel on October 7. Since then, Israel has conducted high-intensity military operations in Gaza, leading to concerns over civilian casualties and humanitarian crises. The Biden administration, while maintaining steadfast support for Israel, is beginning to voice its concerns over the ongoing situation.
U.S. Frustration and Calls for Change
President Biden’s reference to “indiscriminate bombing” and statements by top officials like Vice President Kamala Harris and Secretary of State Antony Blinken underscore a growing dissatisfaction with Israel’s military actions. The U.S. has been increasingly critical of the “far too high” number of Palestinian civilian casualties, emphasizing a significant gap between Israel’s commitments and the realities on the ground.
There are indications that the U.S. is pushing for a change in strategy, with Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin warning Israel about the risks involved. Austin emphasized that in conflicts like these, the civilian population becomes a critical factor, and alienating them could turn a tactical victory into a strategic defeat.
U.S.-Israel Diplomatic Landscape
Despite expressing frustration and concerns, the Biden administration has been cautious not to openly criticize Israel, its main diplomatic and military ally. Washington has resisted calls for a ceasefire, arguing that it would benefit Hamas. However, the U.S. appears increasingly isolated in its stance, as seen in the recent UN General Assembly vote, where 153 member states called for a ceasefire, with only the U.S. and a few others opposing.
The pressure on Israel is evident in National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan’s upcoming visit to Israel. Sullivan has mentioned discussing “timetables” for military operations, signaling a potential shift from the intense military activities seen in recent weeks.
Domestic and Political Pressures
Internally, the Biden administration faces mounting pressure from its own party and constituents regarding its policy toward Israel. There’s a growing sentiment within the Democratic Party questioning the level of support for Israel, especially in light of the conflict’s humanitarian toll.
James Ryan, director of the Middle East program at the Foreign Policy Research Institute, notes that the administration’s potential shift also reflects a tacit acknowledgment of the limited influence the U.S. holds over the Israeli government’s decisions.
Differences on Post-Conflict Plans
Divergences between the U.S. and Israel extend beyond the current conflict. While the U.S. insists on a two-state solution as the long-term resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian question, Israel rejects this approach. Disagreements also arise concerning the governing authority in post-conflict Gaza. The U.S. supports a revitalized Palestinian Authority, while Israel has reservations about such a scenario.
Conclusion: Navigating Complex Diplomacy
The evolving dynamics between the U.S. and Israel amid the Gaza conflict highlight the intricate diplomatic balancing act faced by the Biden administration. Expressing frustration while maintaining support underscores the complexities of managing alliances in the ever-turbulent Middle East. As discussions between the U.S. and Israel continue, the delicate balance in navigating these relations will be crucial for addressing both short-term conflict resolution and long-term geopolitical considerations.
