All articles tagged with #middle east policy
Amer Ghalib, Trump's nominee for U.S. ambassador to Kuwait, faced tough questioning over his history of antisemitic comments and anti-Israel positions during a Senate hearing, with many senators expressing concern about his beliefs and statements that contradict U.S. policies and values.
Germany is considering recognizing Palestinian statehood and may accelerate this process if Israel proceeds with annexing the West Bank, amid growing international pressure and concerns over the two-state solution and humanitarian crisis in Gaza. German officials are engaging with Israeli and Palestinian leaders, and the EU debates potential sanctions against Israel, which could impact trade relations.
Donald Trump won the U.S. presidential election, defeating Kamala Harris, with significant implications for U.S. policy towards Israel and Palestine. Trump's victory is not seen as a shift to the right on Israel policy, but his administration is expected to pursue a 'Greater Israel' agenda, including support for Israeli annexation and reduced restrictions on settlers. Democrats face a reckoning over their failure to address the concerns of their base, particularly regarding Gaza, which impacted voter turnout. The article discusses potential policy shifts under Trump, including increased support for Israel and challenges for pro-Palestine activism in the U.S.
Donald Trump's potential return to the presidency raises questions about his ability to influence the ongoing conflict in Gaza and the release of hostages held by Hamas. While Trump has expressed a desire to end the war and set a timeline for Israel's actions, experts remain skeptical about his impact, citing his lack of detailed plans and the complex dynamics involving Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Analysts suggest that while Trump may exert some influence, the conflict's resolution largely depends on Israeli decisions and broader geopolitical factors.
A large rally in Cambridge, Massachusetts, urged Democratic primary voters to select "no preference" instead of President Joe Biden as a means of pressuring the administration to change its policy in the Middle East, particularly regarding the conflict in Gaza. The campaign, which started in Michigan, aims to send a message to elected officials, but analysts believe it will not significantly impact the outcome of the Democratic National Convention.
Representative Ro Khanna of California warns that President Biden cannot win Michigan without changes to his Middle East policy, as disaffected Democrats in the state are frustrated with his enduring support for Israel in the war in Gaza. Khanna, who has assumed the role of mediator, met with students, Arab American leaders, and progressive voters, emphasizing the need for a shift in policy in a matter of weeks. Michigan, a swing state won narrowly by Biden in 2020, is home to a discontent Arab American community pressing for a cease-fire in the conflict.
Leaked reports reveal the Biden administration's plans to strike Iranian targets in response to attacks on US forces by Iranian-controlled militias in the Middle East. Critics argue that the administration's approach reflects weakness and appeasement, with a focus on brokering a peace deal between Israel and Hamas at the expense of confronting Iran. The lack of decisive action is seen as undermining US prestige in the region and sending dangerous signals to adversaries. Advocates emphasize the need for a stronger, forceful response to deter Iran and assert American interests.
President Joe Biden's campaign manager traveled to Michigan to meet with local elected officials and leaders from minority communities amid growing anger over the administration's Middle East policy, particularly its support of Israel during the conflict with Hamas. However, some Arab-American and Muslim leaders declined invitations to meet, citing the need for a ceasefire before engaging in political discussions. Concerns have been raised about the Biden campaign's handling of the situation and its impact on securing the Arab vote in Michigan, a must-win state for the president's reelection.