This week, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is in the US under mounting pressure from the US government and inside Israel to put an end to the Gaza conflict. The timing of this visit is crucial since political unrest in Washington will probably have an impact on both the journey and future US-Israeli ties.
Netanyahu will be the only foreign leader to address a joint session of Congress four times, when he meets with President Joe Biden—pending the latter's recuperation from COVID-19. After months of friction over his strong position on the Gaza conflict, Netanyahu's trip offers an opportunity to mend fences with Washington. It's also an opportunity to convince Israelis that their relationship with their most important ally is safe under his leadership.
Netanyahu's visit may be overshadowed by President Biden's recent revelation that he would not run for reelection, which raises questions about who Israel's next White House ally will be.
Political Actions and Protests
In Israel, Netanyahu encountered strong criticism before to his departure. He was forced to stay home in order to negotiate a cease-fire with Hamas in order to guarantee the release of Israeli hostages, as protestors demanded. Many people's outrage was expressed by Lee Siegel, whose brother Keith is being held hostage in Gaza: "I do not see how he picks up and flies across the Atlantic to address the political chaos in America until he has signed the deal that is on the table."A common perception that Netanyahu is purposefully postponing the peace process in order to further his political career is reflected in Siegel's remarks. This impression has only been strengthened by his recent imposition of additional conditions on the discussions, which appeared to be moving forward.
Netanyahu has been under fire for allegedly caving in to pressure from far-right cabinet members who have threatened to topple his administration should he give in to Hamas. The White House, which had voiced confidence about a possible accord, is now even more frustrated.
Tense Relationships with the US
Known for his steadfast backing of Israel, President Biden has become more and more worried about the expenses associated with Netanyahu's pursuit of a "total victory" over Hamas. The Biden administration finds it frustrating that Netanyahu would not consider seeking a Palestinian state as part of a post-war agreement. Furthermore, Biden has attacked Netanyahu for failing to safeguard Palestinian people adequately and for bucking requests to expand aid to Gaza. Alarm has also been aroused in Washington by the conflict's propensity to expand and its increasing death toll.Controversies over Biden's qualifications have undermined his presidency, prompting observers to surmise that he may have less sway over Netanyahu. But according to former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak, Biden may gain more authority as a result of his decision to withdraw from the race for reelection. Barak told the BBC, "He is not a lame duck when it comes to foreign policy; in fact, he's more independent because he doesn't have to consider voter impact." "He probably feels more free to do what really needs to be done with regard to Israel."
The political relations between the US and Israel are still complicated and have a big impact on both nations' futures as Netanyahu's visit progresses.
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