US President Israel visit amid war: US President visits Israel amid the Israel-Hamas war, seeking to demonstrate solidarity. Israel prepares for ground action, seeking US support, including military aid. Biden voices opposition to occupying Gaza but calls for an end to Hamas barbarity.
US President Israel visit amid war: This visit, taking place on the 13th day of the war, comes in the wake of a tragic incident in which a hospital in Gaza was attacked, resulting in the loss of 500 lives.
US President Israel visit amid war: Israel has requested $10 billion in military aid from the United States.
Jerusalem,18 October(City Times):The ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict has reached a crucial juncture as the United States President embarked on an official visit to Israel. This visit, taking place on the 13th day of the war, comes in the wake of a tragic incident in which a hospital in Gaza was attacked, resulting in the loss of 500 lives. The visit is expected to demonstrate solidarity between the United States and Israel during this tumultuous period.
Political Challenge for Biden in Israel
While in Israel, the US President faces significant political challenges. The Israeli military has completed preparations for ground action against Hamas, awaiting approval from the government. Israel is seeking political and financial support from the United States to aid in its operation against Hamas. This request can be approached in two significant ways:
A $10 Billion Military Aid Request:
Israel has requested $10 billion in military aid from the United States. During the visit, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will make a compelling case to President Biden for this substantial aid package.
Support for Ground Operations:
Israel has been continuously bombing Gaza since Hamas initiated its attack on October 7. The ongoing conflict has resulted in the loss of more than 3,000 civilian lives. Furthermore, six military commanders of Hamas have been eliminated. However, Israel is now under international scrutiny for potentially going beyond self-defence in its actions in Gaza. This has led to calls from many countries, including China and Egypt, for Israel to halt its offensive. In this regard, Israel is keen on securing the support of the United States after its operation in Gaza and enlisting other Western nations to back its cause.
Biden’s Delicate Balancing Act:
For President Biden, this visit to Israel presents a complex situation. The ongoing Israeli military operation in Gaza may be put on hold due to his presence, and this dynamic adds to the intricacies of his diplomatic efforts.
President Biden has made it clear that while eliminating Hamas is crucial, he views the Israeli occupation of Gaza as a grave mistake. He emphasizes that the organization Hamas must be dealt with, but it’s equally important to address the aspirations of the Palestinian people. He advocates for the creation of a Palestinian state with a separate government as part of a long-term solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict.
Historical Context: US Presidents in War Zones:
This visit by the US President to an active war zone is a significant event, with historical context. While President Biden’s visit to Kyiv in 2022 left the world shocked, it is not the first time a sitting US President has ventured into such situations.
In 2003, President George Bush undertook an unannounced visit to Iraq during the Christmas week. Despite being denied permission by his security unit, President Bush managed to reach Iraq.
In 2010, then US President Barack Obama visited Kabul, the capital of Afghanistan. During this visit, he met with American troops and provided them with support and encouragement.
These examples highlight the unique role and responsibilities that US Presidents hold in times of conflict and war, serving as a symbol of support, unity, and diplomacy.
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