USA (Washington Insider Magazine)—The United States has set a new diplomatic objective in the Gaza conflict: urging Israel to scale back its military operations. This goal represents a significant test of President Joe Biden’s administration, with both the conflict’s trajectory and Biden’s political standing at stake.
Since the outset of the war, the Biden administration has offered Israel steadfast support for its right to defend itself, highlighting that any campaign not removing Hamas would lead to future attacks. However, officials like Secretary of State Antony Blinken have started stressing the importance of protecting civilians, warning that Israel risks a “strategic defeat” if it fails to limit civilian casualties. Yet, the conflict’s death toll and widespread destruction raise global concerns that the U.S. influence has been ineffective in tempering Israel’s response.
The U.S. strategy, though criticized as inadequate by many, has achieved limited successes, such as facilitating humanitarian aid into Gaza and negotiating brief pauses in hostilities for aid deliveries. Diplomacy has seen constant American presence, with senior officials regularly in the region to maintain dialogue with Israeli leaders and regional allies.
For Biden, navigating this conflict is becoming increasingly complex. His approach has drawn criticism from young and Arab Americans, some Democratic Party members, and international partners, resulting in greater isolation on the world stage. Polls indicate declining domestic approval of Biden’s handling of the conflict, particularly among younger voters sympathetic to Palestinian issues.
The administration’s stance has also created internal dissent. Over 800 U.S. officials have anonymously signed a letter pushing for a ceasefire, with one official resigning in protest. Meanwhile, some Democrats are demanding a reassessment of American military aid to Israel, and several high-profile figures, including Senator Bernie Sanders, have called Israeli tactics “reckless and immoral.”
As the calendar approaches 2024, Biden faces mounting pressure to adjust his approach. Striking a balance between backing Israel and addressing international and domestic concerns may prove pivotal, particularly with the U.S. presidential election looming.
