Staff Reports
In a stunning display of diplomatic acrobatics, the Biden administration has decided to play hardball with Israel. It seems the message is clear: improve the “humanitarian situation” in Gaza or watch the usual military support dry up faster than a California lake in summer. Two of the administration’s top brass—Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and Secretary of State Antony Blinken—have sent a rather alarming letter to Israel’s ministers, likening strength against Hamas to a schoolyard game of “please” and “thank you.”
It’s essential to note the timing of this ultimatum. As the world reels from the chaos of Hamas’s brazen attack on October 7, the Biden team appears more interested in virtue signaling than in defending a key ally. The crux of the letter hints at a potential arms embargo against Israel should it fail to meet an impractical 30-day deadline for improving conditions in Gaza. What’s next, a bake sale to fund the war? How does one even “improve” humanitarian conditions in a territory controlled by a militant organization known for commandeering aid meant for everyday Palestinians?
Biden's Latest Betrayal is 'Deeply Disturbing'#Biden spoiling for an exclamation point to his legacy like #WorldWar3!! God help us!!! https://t.co/ZoSEhGGadf
— George Cybulski (@cybulski_george) October 15, 2024
Meanwhile, the letter conveniently glosses over the small detail that much of the humanitarian aid gets diverted into the culprits’ coffers. Recent reports show that Hamas managed to seize over 47 of 100 aid trucks entering Gaza. Yes, that’s right. Aid ostensibly meant to help the innocent is instead topping up the Hamas piggy bank. They’re not just hoarding supplies; they’re selling them back to the people of Gaza for a handsome profit. Talk about a business model worthy of a Shark Tank pitch.
The outrage isn’t confined to just average citizens; former U.S. diplomats are speaking out as well. David Friedman, once the U.S. ambassador to Israel, condemned the administration’s antics as morally repugnant and politically motivated. He pointedly suggested that this heavy-handedness only contributes to prolonging the conflict while prioritizing the alleged humanitarian needs of Hamas over the safety of American hostages. This isn’t the first time the Biden administration has missed the mark on foreign policy, but this could be the cherry on top of the “Amateur Hour” sundae.
Michael Oren, a former Israeli ambassador to the U.S., echoed the sentiments of fatigue and frustration with the administration’s pressure tactics. He claimed that the push to suspend arms is not just “deeply disturbing” but also a betrayal of a vital alliance when the stakes couldn’t be higher. Oren’s call for bipartisanship stands in stark contrast to the current administration’s willingness to abandon steadfast allies at a time when their very survival is at risk.
As tensions continue to escalate, the latest maneuvers by the Biden administration certainly raise questions about America’s reliability as an ally. With arms deals on the chopping block and hostages at risk, one can’t help but wonder if this administration is more focused on appeasing its progressive base than on securing the safety of American citizens and global stability. Talk about a miscalculation that could have disastrous implications—after all, this isn’t just a game of geopolitical chess; lives are at stake.
