Trump Ditches Israel, Courts New Middle East Allies

Donald Trump’s approach to Israel marks a significant departure from his predecessors, characterized by a hands-off foreign policy and a prioritization of deals over traditional alliance dynamics. While often described as “pro-Israel” in rhetoric, the current administration is demonstrably unconcerned with Israeli perspectives on regional issues, a stark contrast to the enthusiastic backing offered by the Biden administration. This shift is evident in Trump’s recent Middle East tour, which notably excluded Israel, despite the country’s long-standing alliance with the United States.

The administration has engaged in direct negotiations with Israel’s adversaries – Hamas, Iran, and the Houthis – without consulting Jerusalem, a move unprecedented in the history of US-Israel relations. This independent outreach, coupled with a lack of pressure on Israel regarding its actions in Gaza, signals a fundamental re-evaluation of the US role in the region.

The change appears driven by a confluence of factors. Trump’s frustration with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, coupled with the rising influence of “restrainer” Republicans advocating for reduced US military involvement in the Middle East, have contributed to the cooling of relations. The administration’s focus on securing economic deals with Gulf states, particularly Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, further underscores this shift in priorities. These nations, now pursuing détente with Iran and seeking to de-escalate regional conflicts, are increasingly wary of Israel’s actions in Gaza and the resulting instability.

The administration has reportedly dropped demands for Saudi recognition of Israel as a condition for nuclear cooperation, effectively abandoning a key goal of the Abraham Accords. This pragmatic approach, prioritizing economic interests over long-held diplomatic objectives, reflects a broader recalibration of US foreign policy.

While critics of Biden’s support for Israel may have hoped for a more assertive stance, Trump’s approach is unlikely to resolve the ongoing crisis in Gaza. The administration has largely remained silent on Israel’s plans for an “intensive escalation” of military operations, effectively granting a green light for further action.

This shift in US policy raises serious questions about the future of the US-Israel relationship and the stability of the Middle East. While Trump’s hands-off approach may reflect a desire to avoid entanglement in regional conflicts, it risks further isolating Israel and exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The administration’s prioritization of economic deals over traditional alliances signals a fundamental shift in US foreign policy, one that could have far-reaching consequences for the region. It’s a calculated gamble, prioritizing transactional relationships over steadfast alliance, and the long-term implications remain to be seen.