Biden and Netanyahu: A Historical Partnership Reaffirmed in Crisis

The U.S.-Israel relationship has long been described as a cornerstone of American foreign policy in the Middle East, and President Joe Biden’s recent phone call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reinforces this reality. Biden’s reaffirmation of his “ironclad” support for Israel amid the current conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon draws on decades of bilateral cooperation between the two nations.

Historically, U.S. presidents have emphasized Israel’s right to self-defense, often increasing military aid and diplomatic support during times of conflict. Biden’s pledge, however, comes at a time when the geopolitical situation in the Middle East is fraught with new complexities. Iran’s involvement in the conflict, through its missile attacks on Israel, poses an additional challenge, raising fears of a broader regional war.

Throughout the conversation with Netanyahu, Biden’s administration expressed unequivocal condemnation of Iran’s actions, but also showed restraint in encouraging a diplomatic resolution to the ongoing crisis. Unlike in previous U.S. administrations, Biden has been more measured in calling for Israel to avoid escalating violence in Lebanon, while still supporting its offensive military operations in the region.

This balance between military and diplomatic approaches underscores the evolution of the U.S.-Israel partnership under Biden’s leadership. As Israel contemplates a potential strike on Iran’s nuclear facilities, Biden’s refusal to support such a move highlights a shift in U.S. strategy compared to previous administrations, which were more willing to entertain direct military action against Iran.

In this respect, Biden’s approach to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and broader Middle Eastern issues mirrors the complexities of modern-day diplomacy — firm in principle, but increasingly reliant on multilateral and diplomatic solutions.