Diplomacy and Division: The US Role in the Middle East Conflict and Its Political Fallout
US President Joe Biden hosts Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in the Oval Office. (Photo: AP Photo/Susan Walsh)
Conflict in the Middle East has thrust the United States into a diplomatic and strategic high-wire act that is becoming increasingly central to the 2024 presidential election. Polarization surrounding the conflict is growing, with some demanding that Washington support Israel’s “right to defend themselves.”Conflict in the Middle East has thrust the United States into a diplomatic and strategic high-wire act that is becoming increasingly central to the 2024 presidential election. Polarization surrounding the conflict is growing, with some demanding that Washington support Israel’s “right to defend themselves.” Others are calling for oversight of relationships with other key regional actors, such as Iran and Hezbollah. Meanwhile, pressure is mounting on the US to provide more aid to those suffering in Gaza. The question of how deeply the US should involve itself in the conflict has sparked heated debate between presidential candidates Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, with significant implications for both foreign policy and domestic politics.
As the conflict escalates, the US faces growing demands to bolster its military commitment to its longstanding ally, especially as we pass the one-year mark since the attacks of Oct. 7, 2023. The Biden administration quickly moved to provide Israel with resources, including interceptors for the Iron Dome missile defense system as well as intelligence sharing to strengthen Israeli defense against ongoing rocket attacks. These actions have drawn criticism from Democrats, while Republicans and their candidates are largely united in calling for even stronger military support for Israel. The Democratic Party, however, is more divided on this issue, which poses challenges as the party aims for unity ahead of the election. Moderates of the party, such as President Joe Biden, support the long-standing strategic partnership with Israel, but progressive Democrats fear that too much US support could escalate the conflict into a broader regional war. Additionally, progressives argue that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s policies and the Israeli state’s treatment of Palestinians in Gaza warrant action against the Israeli state. This division within the Democratic Party leaves Kamala Harris in a difficult position, with just two weeks remaining until the election. Others are calling for oversight of relationships with other key regional actors, such as Iran and Hezbollah. Meanwhile, pressure is mounting on the US to provide more aid to those suffering in Gaza. The question of how deeply the US should involve itself in the conflict has sparked heated debate between presidential candidates Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, with significant implications for both foreign policy and domestic politics.
Former US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu pictured after signing the Abraham Accords near the end of Trump’s tenure in office. (Photo: AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
US cooperation with ASEAN is vital due to the tensions between China and the US. The complex relationship between the US and China dates bWeapons and intelligence are not the only responsibilities the US holds in this conflict. A key priority for the Biden administration has been diplomatic efforts aimed at steering neighboring countries away from deeper involvement. This includes Iran, which has long supported Hamas, and Lebanon, where Hezbollah has a strong presence. American officials are working to prevent a broader war that could destabilize the Middle East by communicating covertly with regional actors. The goal is to minimize Iranian involvement and convince Hezbollah to scale back its threats of more active engagement in the conflict. The potential involvement of actors like Iran and Hezbollah illustrates the delicate balancing act the US faces in this crisis.
Voter’s opinions on US foreign policy and national security seem to shift as the domestic impacts of the Middle East conflict grow. As tensions in the region escalate near the election, candidates are forced to define their foreign policy platforms more clearly, particularly Vice President Harris. Regardless of party affiliation, voters are looking for changes from the previous administration. Harris finds herself in a difficult position as vice president of the current administration. She must balance staying loyal to President Joe Biden — who has endorsed her and provided the delegates needed for her candidacy — while also distinguishing herself as a candidate. Biden’s administration has taken a relatively pro-Israel stance. Harris needs to appeal to voters by differentiating her approach while remaining consistent with Biden’s policies. This challenge does not apply to former President Trump. As the election draws near, US policy on Israel and the broader Middle East will be a crucial issue, with both candidates and voters deeply divided on the best path forward.