The relationship between the United States and Israel has long shown cracks, but now appears to have reached a dangerous rift, as foreign commentator Bernard Hammelburg points out. According to Hammelburg, the situation deteriorated after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu responded to the UN resolution in which the United States abstained from voting. “It's been coming, and I don't see it getting better any time soon.”
“Violent altercation” between Biden and Netanyahu: “It was coming”
The head of the Democratic group, Chuck Schumer, previously stated that he considers Netanyahu a “stumbling block” on the path to peace. “That was amazing,” Hammelborg says. Schumer added that Netanyahu must leave and Biden supported this. So it's a really big fight. In addition, the Israeli media also deplores Netanyahu's reaction to the UN resolution calling for a ceasefire.
According to National Security Council representative Caspar Feldkamp, who is also a former ambassador to Israel and the Palestinian territories, the Israelis themselves also realize that the matter has become a mess. The fact that the Israeli media itself is now expressing its criticism is an example of this. “As you can see, after adopting this decision, Netanyahu canceled a delegation’s visit to the White House. A large part of the delegation was also removed from the ceasefire negotiations in Qatar. A very chaotic situation has arisen.
Disproportionate pressure
At the same time, the National Security Council member somewhat understands Netanyahu's frustration. One of the Israeli Prime Minister's main goals is to free the hostages still held by Hamas. At the same time, pressure is increasing on negotiations in Qatar to reach a ceasefire. Countries such as the United States and the Netherlands in particular are putting pressure on Israel. Arab countries must do the same with Hamas. I think Netanyahu feels that a disproportionate amount of pressure is being put on Israel, which is putting a strain on the right to self-defense.
'Israel has one of the most dilapidated and chaotic governments in history'
But the biggest problem for Netanyahu, according to Feldkamp, is that his country is facing “the greatest challenge in the history of existence.” The National Security Council member compares the events of October 7 last year to the downing of flight MH17, “but with a force of 100.” Not only is support for Israel continuing to decline, but there are now skirmishes with Hezbollah. “So Israel faces the biggest challenges, but at the same time it also has one of the most fragile and chaotic ministries in history.”
Strategic interests
In addition, Netanyahu has become increasingly unpopular in his country. Hammelburg notes that the Israeli Prime Minister is fighting for his existence. “His position is very weak.” Words are used in the media that you would hope would never be used for a Dutch politician. However, the foreign commentator does not believe that the United States will abandon Israel immediately. “The strategic interests are too great for that to happen.”
Read also | Israel, Hamas and Hezbollah ignore the UN resolution
Feldkamp sees it differently: “The strategic interests are great, but Israel must be very careful in the future. Support for Israeli operations is declining sharply. In addition, future presidents will look more to China, as the United States becomes less dependent on the Middle East. The bond does not automatically remain equally linked across the board. Israel must take this into account,” Veldkamp warns.
Read also | Divisions within the Israeli government are increasing significantly
