Tensions grow between U.S. and Israel
WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) – As hostilities in the Middle East continue there’s also growing tensions between the U.S. and Israeli leadership, now spilling into public view.
U.S. officials are hoping to shore up that rift following meetings between high-level officials from both countries this week.
“They haven’t, in the past, agreed on everything, and they don’t agree on everything right now. But they both agree on one really important thing, and that is the importance of the state of Israel,” said John Kirby, NSC Spokesman.
Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin welcomed his Israeli counterpart to the Pentagon this week.
With the war between Israel and Hamas dragging on, U.S. iofficials are under increasing pressure to get more aid into Gaza.
“Gaza is suffering a humanitarian catastrophe and the situation is getting even worse,” said Austin.
Secretary Austin is also warning the Israeli defense minister not to invade the Gazan city of Rafah without protections for Palestinian civilians.
“We’ll discuss alternative approaches to target Hamas elements, and we must plan for Israel’s security once the conflict ends,” Austin added.
Although the rapport between the president and Netanyahu appears chilled, the Israeli leader continues to court congressional Republicans.
“Israel has every right under the law, every moral right, a moral obligation to its people to destroy Hamas. I and others have your back,” said Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.).
The White House has yet to lay out any consequences if Israel fails to protect civilians.
“Let’s take this one step at a time,” said State Department Spokesperson, Matthew Miller.
Other top U.S. officials including the CIA director are also expected to meet with the Israeli defense minister while he’s in the U.S.
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