Diplomatic Rift Widens Between US and Israel Over Gaza War Response

Tensions between the US and Israel are escalating, primarily due to differences over the Gaza War, The Media Line’s Mohammad Al-Kassim reports. The American president is reportedly frustrated with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for not heeding US requests. The Biden Administration, seeking to maintain a positive public image of support for Israel, is particularly irked by Netanyahu’s noncompliance with requests to transition military operations in Gaza and release Palestinian tax revenues. Political scientist Gideon Rahat from the Hebrew University views President Biden’s requests as reasonable, given his significant support for Israel. On the other hand, Netanyahu, influenced by far-right elements in his coalition, remains unyielding. The White House is also concerned about Israel’s restrictions on humanitarian aid to Gaza and Netanyahu’s reluctance to discuss post-war plans involving the Palestinian Authority. However, international relations expert Dr. Yonatan Freeman downplays the severity of these tensions, noting cooperation in some areas. Amid these diplomatic strains, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant expresses support for the Palestinian Authority’s role in Gaza’s future. The situation is further complicated by President Biden’s own political considerations during an election year in the US, as he navigates the divisive foreign policy crisis.