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During the recent meeting between Joe Biden and Israel’s president Isaac Herzog, Biden emphasized the unbreakable and ironclad commitment between the US and Israel. However, this meeting also highlighted the strained relationship between the two countries since Benjamin Netanyahu took office as the head of the most rightwing government in Israeli history.
Danny Ayalon, former Israeli ambassador to the US and chair of Silver Road Capital Group, commented on the Biden administration’s approach, stating, “The administration is trying to walk between the lines. To show they have Israel’s back — but also that they have a problem with this government.”
A main point of contention for the Biden administration has been Netanyahu’s government’s plans to expand Jewish settlements in the West Bank, which is seen as illegal by most of the international community and an obstacle to peace. However, Biden chose to focus on the moves to weaken Israel’s judiciary system, which has sparked protests and a political crisis within the country.
Martin Indyk, former US ambassador to Israel and Lowy distinguished fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations, emphasized the importance of Israel’s democratic institutions and expressed concern over the current situation. He stated, “We have never before faced a situation in which the whole issue of Israel’s democratic institutions or its independent judiciary has been called into question.”
One reason for Biden’s focus on the judicial overhaul is the increasing partisanship surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict in US politics. The actions taken by Biden’s predecessor, Donald Trump, which favored Israel, have intensified the divide. While Biden’s warnings about the judicial overhaul have drawn less Republican backlash, they have resonated with many within the Jewish community in the US who share his concerns.
Despite the criticisms, there are no indications that the Biden administration plans to take further action against Netanyahu’s government. A National Security Council (NSC) official clarified that there is no talk of a formal reassessment of the US-Israel relationship.
Although some policies have changed, such as the halting of funding for Israeli research institutes in West Bank settlements, the Biden administration has pursued other policies that could benefit Netanyahu politically. This includes an agreement that brings Israel closer to joining the US visa-waiver program. Additionally, the administration has been working to facilitate Israel’s aspirations to normalize ties with Saudi Arabia.
Overall, while the US-Israel defense cooperation remains strong, the relationship is facing challenges and raising concerns within the Biden administration.
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