Dear Editor,
I’m afraid I can’t help but concur with the inference of your recent editorial suggesting that the potential for a broader conflict in the Middle East, particularly with Binyamin Netanyahu guiding Israel’s course, is substantial. Yet, it is questionable whether the United States, notorious for its combative associates, could act as a stabilising force.
It should be pointed out that the call for restraint has consistently fell on deaf ears in Israel, and there appears to be little scope for change unless proactive measures accompany these pleas. This brings us to the heart of the matter concerning America’s role.
Whilst the Biden administration has shown some scepticism towards Israeli military tactics, it’s not overlooked that they have unabashedly fuelled the war effort by supplying the very weaponry employed indiscriminately against Palestinian civilians, in addition to pledging staunch political support. President Biden made this quite clear last April, emphasising the durability of US endorsement for Israel.
This sentiment was further echoed by the American state department in recent times, reminding journalists of the firm and unwavering American support for Israel. Despite the impetus for a ceasefire in Gaza, both the EU and the US have refrained from implementing any sanctions against Israel, unlike in the case with Iran and Russia.
Little wonder then, that Israel remains confident in its immunity and feels equipped to weather the international backlash. Netanyahu, despite outrageously labelling the brutal Israeli attack on Gaza as a struggle between ‘barbarism and civilisation’, was received with repeated applause when addressing US Congress last week. Indeed, it made for a troubling spectacle.
Nonetheless, there is no longer any mystery as to why Israel feels at liberty to persist with the merciless targeting of Gaza.
Yours sincerely,
Fintan Lane,
Co Dublin.