"Reevaluating U.S. Policy in the Israel-Hamas Conflict: Challenges and Calls for Change"
GS PAPER 2
INTERNATIONAL RELATION
U.S. Policy and the Israel-Hamas Conflict
- President Biden's initial strategy focused on preventing escalation into a wider regional conflict involving Israel and its neighbors.
- Biden provided unwavering support for Israel's offensive in Gaza, triggered by Hamas's October 7 attack, which resulted in significant casualties.
Challenges and Consequences
- As the conflict persisted with high civilian casualties in Gaza, Biden's policy came under increasing scrutiny and faced domestic and regional challenges.
- Over 34,000 deaths, predominantly women and children, occurred due to Israeli Defense Forces' actions in Gaza.
- Israel planned to invade Rafah despite Biden's warnings, risking further escalation.
Regional Implications
- Tensions extended beyond Palestinian territories and Israel, with incidents involving Houthi attacks and exchanges between Israel and Iran.
- Despite avoiding a full-scale regional war, the conflict heightened instability and triggered protests in the U.S.
Diplomatic Efforts
- Biden administration officials engaged in cease-fire and hostage negotiations between Israel and Hamas.
- Biden's prompt response to Iranian attacks on Israel and warnings against Israeli retaliation helped manage regional tensions.
Flaws in U.S. Approach
- Criticism arose over America's supply of weapons to Israel amid allegations of indiscriminate bombing in Gaza.
- Biden's rhetoric and diplomatic efforts for peace were not sufficiently backed by actions to pressure Israel effectively.
Moral and Diplomatic Challenges
- Biden's support for Israel's actions undermined U.S. values on human rights in conflict.
- The president's inability to rein in Israel affected America's credibility in the Middle East and potentially impacted his political standing.
Recommendations for Policy Change
- Calls for Biden to address flaws in his Israel-Palestine policy, including advocating for a permanent ceasefire in Gaza.
- Suggestions to suspend arms sales to Israel as part of a new approach to prioritize peace efforts in the region.