Tim Scott strongly condemns Trump’s remarks on Netanyahu as ‘damaging and unproductive’

In a recent conversation hosted by Georgetown’s Institute of Politics and Public Service and The Associated Press, South Carolina Senator Tim Scott (R) criticized former President Trump’s recent comments about Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Scott, who is also a 2024 presidential candidate, described Trump’s remarks as “terrible and not helpful.” He emphasized the importance of loyalty to allies and maintaining a strong stance against adversaries as a matter of preserving lives.

During a speech on Wednesday, Trump accused Netanyahu of “letting us down” in 2020 before the U.S. military conducted a targeted strike on a top Iranian general. He also suggested that Netanyahu’s discussions with the Biden administration had assisted the designated terror organization, Hezbollah. In contrast, Scott commended Netanyahu for his display of “passion” and “humanity” following a deadly attack by Hamas on October 7.

Israel responded to the attack with heavy airstrikes, officially declaring war on Hamas. The conflict has claimed the lives of over 4,000 people thus far.

Scott praised Netanyahu for exercising restraint and refraining from immediate action, which he believes speaks to the Prime Minister’s moral and humane qualities. The Republican senator found common ground with his presidential campaign rival, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, on the issue of Palestinian refugees. Scott supported the decision not to accept Palestinian refugees fleeing Gaza due to the inability to determine who poses a safety risk.

This stance aligns with DeSantis’ rhetoric, as he believes all Palestinian refugees are “antisemitic” and should not be taken in. Discussing the topic of BRICS, a grouping of the economies of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, Scott expressed his intention to “break” the coalition if elected President. He believes that these economic partnerships aim to diminish the influence of the US Dollar as the world’s reserve currency and would instead work towards attracting resources away from BRICS and towards stronger cooperation with the United States.

Scott’s remarks demonstrated his assertive and confident approach to foreign policy matters and his willingness to challenge international alliances and relationships in pursuit of American interests. By openly criticizing Trump’s comments, finding common ground with DeSantis, and expressing his desire to break economic partnerships, he portrays himself as a strong and decisive leader. Scott’s position on these issues may resonate with conservative voters who prioritize American interests and value strong leadership in the international arena.