Biden Faces Tough Challenge in Controlling Netanyahu Without Key Leverage | US News
President Joe Biden was compelled to warn Israel of a potential shift in American policy towards Gaza due to the killing of foreign aid workers.
Since the Hamas attacks on Israel on 7 October, over 200 Palestinian aid workers have lost their lives in Gaza, adding to the staggering death toll of over 30,000.
A World Central Kitchen vehicle wrecked by an Israeli strike. Pic: AP
The destruction in Gaza has been catastrophic, with hospitals, mosques, courts, schools, and essential infrastructure flattened, leading to an acute humanitarian crisis and a looming famine in the north.
The decisive trigger for the American warning was the tragic death of aid workers from the charity World Central Kitchen.
The US considers this moment a turning point in the conflict, prompting President Biden to call for an immediate ceasefire, despite the US abstaining from a similar vote at the UN a week earlier.
The tense conversation between President Biden and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu underscored the severity of the situation.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu
President Biden emphasized the urgent need for Israel to take specific, measurable steps to address civilian casualties, humanitarian suffering, and the safety of aid workers.
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‘Attack on aid workers not the first but must be the last’
President Biden’s statements set the criteria for America’s stance on Gaza; a shift in policy will be contingent on Israel’s immediate actions in response to these expectations.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken further elaborated on this point, stating, “If we don’t see the changes we need, there will be changes in our policy towards Gaza.”
The challenge lies in reining in Prime Minister Netanyahu regarding Gaza without jeopardizing Israel’s strategic position, a delicate balance that Mr. Biden must navigate.
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The threat of a change in American policy towards Israel raises questions about the practical implications, with speculation about a potential reduction in military aid. However, actual implementation of such measures is uncertain, given the strategic implications for Israel’s security and regional stability.
Limiting weapon supplies to Israel could leave the country vulnerable to exploitation by adversaries like Iran and its proxies, posing significant risks to its security.
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The complexity of the situation is reflected in America’s limited leverage, given the challenges of enforcing restrictions on Israel’s use of American weaponry.
The language used by American officials highlights unwavering support for Israel against external threats, indicating the delicate balance of US policy in the region.
President Biden faces the daunting task of pressuring Prime Minister Netanyahu on Gaza without jeopardizing Israel’s security, presenting a formidable challenge for both leaders.
