Israel’s expected ground incursion into Lebanon will highlight the new strategic reality of the United States’ inability to control its ally or influence other major players in the escalating regional crisis. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government has launched a limited ground operation into Lebanon, despite previous calls from Washington for restraint and de-escalation. President Joe Biden’s recent comments urging a ceasefire only underscore the growing divide between the US and Israeli governments, as Netanyahu continues to act unilaterally without consultation.
The pattern of Israeli defiance and American impotency has been evident since the Hamas attacks in October, leading to the Israeli strikes on Gaza and attempts to destroy Hezbollah in Lebanon. Netanyahu’s actions often precede consultations with the US, creating challenges for American diplomatic efforts and potentially involving the US in a detrimental regional conflict. Despite the efforts of Secretary of State Antony Blinken, the US has been unable to influence the situation in Gaza and Lebanon, leaving the Biden administration appearing as a bystander rather than an active participant in the events unfolding.
While Biden continues to be a staunch supporter of Israel, his efforts to maintain a balance in the situation have been overshadowed by Netanyahu’s calculated moves. The Israeli leader’s reliance on Biden’s instincts has paid off, with the US intervening to repel Iranian missile attacks against Israel in the past. However, Biden has been reluctant to exercise more significant leverage, such as cutting off military supplies to Israel, for fear of political repercussions and accusations of abandonment.
The ongoing conflict between the US and Israel is emblematic of the broader political and strategic tensions between the two nations. While Israel perceives an existential threat from its enemies and justifies its actions based on national security concerns, the US is wary of being drawn into a prolonged conflict in the Middle East. The global and economic implications of the regional unrest, coupled with the potential for a broader war involving Iran, present significant challenges for US interests in the region.
Differing military perceptions and political factors further complicate the US-Israel relationship, with Netanyahu’s shift to the far right and domestic political considerations shaping his decisions. The lack of alternative leaders in Israel and the absence of viable partners for peace negotiations on the Palestinian side contribute to the impasse in resolving the conflict. The erosion of US support for Israel and the polarized political landscape in America add further strain to the situation, with domestic considerations influencing the US response to the crisis.
As the conflict in Gaza and Lebanon continues, the divergent interests of the US and Israel highlight the complexities of the regional dynamics and the challenges of finding a resolution. The conflicting priorities and strategies of the two nations underscore the need for a nuanced approach to address the root causes of the conflict and prevent further escalation. The evolving situation in the Middle East reflects broader geopolitical shifts and power dynamics, with far-reaching implications for US foreign policy and international diplomacy.
