Staff Reports
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recently took a moment to thank President Biden for his long-standing support of Israel, a relationship that has spanned over five decades. This gratitude was expressed during a visit to the White House, where Netanyahu was likely keen to look past their recent disagreements over the situation in Gaza. After all, it’s better to focus on the longstanding friendship than to dwell on a few squabbles, even if they involve some spirited discussions about military support.
Biden, amid heavy pressure from the progressive wing of his own party demanding a ceasefire to protect Palestinian civilians, has found himself in a tight spot. A notable tension arose earlier this year, when a less-than-friendly phone call led to Biden briefly halting the delivery of munitions to Israel. In a rare flash of defiance, Netanyahu voiced his disbelief that the U.S. would consider withholding military supplies. Newsflash: It was pretty inconceivable given the historical bond between the two nations.
Netanyahu thanks Biden for supporting Israel despite recent tensionshttps://t.co/Tgru5q3Kz9 pic.twitter.com/Kf77JeDIdh
— The Washington Times (@WashTimes) July 26, 2024
The backdrop of their meeting was not exactly tranquil. Pro-Palestinian demonstrations outside the Capitol saw protestors waving Palestinian flags and burning American ones, offering a stark reminder that not everyone is pleased with the U.S.’s relationship with its key ally in the Middle East. Meanwhile, Netanyahu addressed Congress, urging lawmakers to continue their financial and military support for Israel, a call that not even the loudest protesters could ignore. Can Americans just agree that when the chips are down, a little military aid goes a long way in the fight against terrorism?
Adding another layer of intrigue, Biden’s encounter with Netanyahu marked his first meeting with a foreign leader since his recent withdrawal from the presidential race and endorsement of Vice President Kamala Harris. It’s a new political face on a familiar stage. While Harris was not in attendance for Netanyahu’s address to Congress, she was set to meet with the Israeli leader later in the day. One can only imagine the foreign policy experts holding their breath, hoping for a rhythm in this changing political landscape.
Finally, both leaders promised to dig deeper into the pressing issues at hand—the humanitarian situation in Gaza along with the hostage crisis ensnared in the conflict with Hamas. Talks appear to be inching toward a resolution, with a senior administration official noting that the negotiations are in their “closing stages.” But let’s be real here; in the world of international diplomacy, “closing stages” can feel like a polite euphemism for “not holding one’s breath.” What’s crucial is that hope for a secure and democratic Israel remains strong, as many anxiously await the resolution of these tense situations.
