It’s no secret that the administration under former President Donald Trump was marked by enduring support for Israel, and arguably, no U.S. president in the past has been as zealous in his advocacy for Israel. However, there are instances where Trump’s actions have seemingly downplayed Israel’s concerns and interests. And curiously enough, we now observe the potential emergence of political discourse where such actions could be depicted as desirable.
Trump’s acknowledgement of United Jerusalem as Israel’s perennial capital was much talked-about, as was the relocation of America’s embassy from Tel Aviv to the newly anointed capital. His recognition of Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights was equally controversial and heightened his established pattern of stark pro-Israeli moves.
Trump was also noteworthy for his claims of legality around all Jewish settlements in Judea and Samaria, leaving their legal status to Israel’s judicial discretion. Furthermore, his stance advocating for a complete exodus of Arabs from Gaza bolstered his position as a relentless supporter of Israel.
Another significant move by Trump was the implementation of harsh restrictions on academic institutions alleged to foster or encourage anti-Jewish sentiments. Coupled with lifting of former presidential embargoes on Israel and increased allocations for arms shipments, his support for Israel was profoundly exhibited.
Intriguingly, Trump populated his administration with ambassadors to Israel who were ardently pro-annexation, boldly asserting the absence of anything akin to ‘Palestine’, and endorsing the notion that all of Judea and Samaria were divinely gifted to the Jews.
The Palestine Liberation Organisation (PLO) found itself ousted from Washington under Trump’s watch, and funding for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) came to a jarring halt. Similarly, the U.S. axed its membership of the U.N. Human Rights Council under his direction.
In the name of rectifying perceived anti-Semitic injustices, Trump even went as far as to commute what he claimed were excessive sentences against Orthodox Jews in states with a history of alleged discrimination. And yet, despite his staunchly pro-Israeli stance, his administration unwound with the advent of Joe Biden, Kamala Harris, and the Democrats.
One of Trump’s final acts, and arguably most unexpected, was the realization of the Abraham Accords. These peace agreements were slowly expanding but succumbed to a standstill once the Democratic seat warmers, Biden and Harris, took charge.
However, it is critical not to overlook that Trump’s influence on the U.S.-Israel relationship has been monumental. It’s important to remember though; ultimate power doesn’t reside in a president, but in the governance of our Creator. Yet, shock reverberated when Trump negotiated a deal with the Yemen Houthis, providing no firm guarantees for Israel.
The agreement meant the cessation of American bombings in Yemen and a halt to Houthi attacks on American ships in the Red Sea. However, Israel found itself bearing an unexpected focal point of vulnerability, receiving no assurances of safety or protection within this deal.
Continuing in this vein, Trump began creating agreements with Saudi Arabia, which previously necessitated Saudi Arabian progression toward Israel. Alongside this, Trump’s coercive tactics led Israel to free hundreds of Arabs, earning him the acclaimed label of peacemaker.
Utilizing his presidential privilege, Trump imposed hefty tariffs on Israel, an action perceived as faintly anti-Israel. Yet, we must consider that every political move in his tenure was seemingly intended to primarily serve American interests.
In fact, where Trump’s policies aligned with Israeli interests, it was pure chance. Such coherences should relate more to aligned geopolitical interests rather than any form of unique affinity toward Israel by Trump.
Despite holding the title of being one of the most pro-Israeli American presidents, Trump’s actions serve as a reminder not to rest unduly on foreign support. Israel’s future dealings with regional challenges must spring from an intrinsic strength and a steadfast faith in G-d.
While Trump’s unwavering support of Israel is missing from the White House, it appears necessary for Israel to continue its journey in faith, wisdom, and a realization that it holds all the necessary cards, irrespective of the potential blunders coming from Biden and Harris’s misguided paths.
The post Bumbling Biden, Harris Threaten Israel’s Inherent Strength appeared first on Real News Now.
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