The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, triggered by a deadly weekend attack by the militant group, is having far-reaching implications on domestic US politics. This crisis is further complicating matters for the Biden administration, intensifying the focus on the tumultuous state of Congress and injecting an element of uncertainty into the upcoming 2024 US elections.
While Americans typically pay limited attention to international events, the disturbing images of civilian casualties in the Middle East, including American casualties, are ensuring that this issue captures national attention. Critics of President Joe Biden are already blaming him for the violence in Israel, accusing Iran of orchestrating the attack and citing US policies, such as allowing Iran to increase oil sales and access frozen assets for humanitarian aid, as signs of American “weakness.”
Former President Donald Trump, in a speech in New Hampshire, pledged to reinstate all US sanctions on Iran and reintroduce a travel ban on majority Muslim nations afflicted by terrorism. Some experts argue that Trump’s Abraham Accords and the Biden administration’s efforts to normalize relations between Israel and Saudi Arabia may have contributed to the Hamas attack by sidestepping the Palestinian issue.
Republican criticism is primarily directed at President Biden, but the Israel attack has also exposed divisions within the party, particularly regarding the changing perspectives on interventionist foreign policies. Former Vice President Mike Pence used this moment to criticize some of his Republican rivals for their nativist and isolationist worldviews.
Former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, who faced a challenge from right-wing conservatives, is now at odds with the party, further complicating congressional action. Florida Congressman Matt Gaetz dismissed concerns that his actions impeded Congress’s ability to assist Israel, emphasizing the significant military support the US provides to Israel annually.
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