In a concerning turn of events, the Biden administration is causing rifts in the historically strong relationship between the United States and Israel. According to seasoned observers of U.S.-Israel relations, the administration’s opposition to a controversial new Iran nuclear deal, its meddling in Israel’s judiciary reform, and its disapproval of settlements in the disputed West Bank territory are creating unnecessary tension.
Jason Greenblatt, former White House Envoy to the Middle East and a recognized expert in the field, expressed his concerns regarding U.S. interference in Israeli politics. He highlighted the Biden administration’s pressure on the Israeli government to abandon its plans for judicial reform, calling it a blatant interference in another country’s internal affairs. Greenblatt emphasized that Israel is a robust democracy and should be allowed to make decisions based on its own interests and democratic procedures.
Moreover, Greenblatt criticized the administration for not inviting Prime Minister Netanyahu to the White House, describing it as a petty move that will not yield the desired results. He urged the U.S. to work with its allies rather than dictate their policies, pointing out that similar pressure on Saudi Arabia failed in the past and will fail with Israel as well.
While the Biden administration has made positive statements regarding Israel’s security challenges, including non-Iran-related threats, Greenblatt expressed reservations about its Iran policy. He echoed the sentiments of Middle East expert Caroline Glick, who argued that the administration’s cancellation of Secretary of State Blinken’s visit to Israel indicates a dangerous policy of appeasement towards Iran. Reports suggest that the U.S. is secretly negotiating an interim nuclear deal with Iran, which involves dropping all sanctions in exchange for an end to Iran’s uranium enrichment.
Mark Dubowitz, CEO of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, voiced his concerns about the Biden administration’s Iran policy as well. He speculated that the cancellation of Blinken’s trip may be related to the administration’s desire to avoid scrutiny regarding the potential deal with Iran.
The Biden administration’s actions have raised questions about its commitment to the U.S.-Israel alliance. Israel perceives the U.S. as no longer being a credible ally due to its appeasement policies towards Iran. This perception has led to a lack of interest in coordinating Iran policy with Washington and a diminished need for bilateral visits.
While some argue that U.S.-Israel relations remain strong and that senior Israeli officials routinely visit Washington, critics point out that President Biden’s refusal to invite Prime Minister Netanyahu for a formal state visit is a source of concern. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy even pledged to invite Netanyahu if Biden fails to extend an invitation. The refusal to extend an invitation to a key ally like Israel sends a troubling message.
Former Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Joel Rubin, who served during the Obama administration, defended the Biden administration’s approach, emphasizing the strength of U.S.-Israel relations. However, critics argue that Netanyahu’s lack of concern about the state of relations does not negate the validity of concerns about a weakening alliance.
The Biden administration’s interference in Israeli politics and its disagreements over judicial reform and settlements are not simply matters of policy; they represent a departure from the previous administrations’ handling of such issues. The U.S. should respect Israel’s sovereignty and refrain from making these disagreements public spectacles.
As Israel faces challenges from neighboring adversaries and potential multi-front wars, it is essential for the U.S. to stand firmly by its side. Instead of meddling in internal affairs, the Biden administration should focus on fostering a genuine compromise and advancing mutual interests and values. Only through direct negotiations between Israel and the Palestinians can a comprehensive and lasting peace be achieved, not through unilateral actions or external pressure.
In conclusion, the Biden administration’s interference and its failure to extend a formal invitation to Prime Minister Netanyahu are alarming signs of a strained U.S.-Israel relationship. It is crucial for the U.S. to reassess its approach and work toward strengthening the alliance, rather than weakening it through misguided policies and public disagreements.
Source Fox News