At a critical moment when the world yearns for decency and moral clarity, President Biden has delivered. His unequivocal condemnation of the heinous acts committed by Hamas against Israeli and international civilians demonstrates both his resolve and moral compass. In a speech addressing American Jewish leaders, he referred to the mass murder as “sheer evil,” drawing comparisons to the worst atrocities perpetrated by ISIS.
President Biden not only denounced the terrorism but also affirmed support for Israel’s defensive measures. Importantly, he reminded Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the new emergency war government of their responsibilities under the law of war. These measured statements strike a delicate balance—standing with Israel while also being prepared to influence and guide if necessary.
Mr. Biden has demonstrated the qualities of true political leadership in times of crisis, reassuring those who put their trust in him when they cast their ballots. While we may not endorse all the steps taken by the Biden administration in the Middle East, it is crucial to focus on how the United States, along with its allies, handles the current reality that began unfolding on Saturday.
It is not our intention to address all the controversies that have arisen, including the statements made by individuals in Hollywood, on college campuses, or on the streets of Manhattan regarding Hamas’s massacre. What truly matters is the response and actions of those who hold or seek political power. It is essential that they have the ability to distinguish between this specific act of violence and the broader context that includes Palestinian suffering throughout history. Unreserved condemnation of Hamas’s terrorism is the starting point for any meaningful debate on this issue. On this front, Mr. Biden’s resolute words stand in stark contrast to the equivocations of a small number of left-wing members of Congress from his own party, as explicitly stated by White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre.
However, the comments made by GOP presidential front-runner Donald Trump occupy their own reckless category. While he initially labeled the Hamas attack a disgrace, he quickly shifted blame towards President Biden’s policies. Unfortunately, this partisan behavior is not surprising. What was truly astonishing, though, was Mr. Trump’s subsequent criticism of Israel itself for not anticipating the attack and his lecturing of the Jewish state to “step up their game.” Furthermore, he praised Iran-backed Hezbollah and compared them to Chinese President Xi Jinping while chastising Israel’s defense minister. Finally, he accused Mr. Netanyahu of betraying him by not supporting the deadly strike ordered against the commander of Iran’s elite Quds Force. These comments have been met with denial and condemnation from Israeli sources.
There are valuable lessons to be learned from Mr. Netanyahu, who fostered a close relationship with Mr. Trump during his presidency, built on unwavering support. The Israeli public, too, should take note, considering Mr. Trump’s popularity during his time in office. However, it is primarily Americans, especially Republicans, both voters and politicians, who must pay attention to these comments. Some of Mr. Trump’s rivals for the GOP nomination have already denounced his remarks. Even by his own standards, his comments demonstrate an unprecedented inclination to deepen wounds and turn an international crisis into a personal drama. This latest outburst exemplifies how fortunate we are that he is not currently occupying the White House and emphasizes the unfortunate consequences that would arise if he were to return.
The challenges that lie ahead require precise rhetoric, empathy for the victims, and strategic thinking regarding U.S. interests. True leaders rise to such occasions.
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