Biden’s Visit to Israel will Define His Presidency
Less than two weeks after Hamas launched its unprecedented invasion into southern Israel, Joe Biden is set to touch down in Tel Aviv for a visit to one of America’s closest allies. His arrival comes as the Israeli military continues to bombard the densely populated Gaza strip in preparation for a likely ground invasion that will surely see thousands die. Ostensibly, the purpose of the trip is to demonstrate US solidarity with a nation that is both mourning and seeking revenge.
Such solidarity is being offered alongside promises that the US will provide further substantial military assistance to the Israelis. Already, the Pentagon has sent warships to the region and Biden has given the order for two thousand troops to prepare for redeployment to the Middle East. The US military buildup appears to be geared toward disabusing Hezbollah (and its benefactor, Iran) from any notions of entering the conflict. In addition to symbolizing America’s affinity with Israel, Biden’s visit is intended to demonstrate the willingness of the US military to get involved if Hezbollah opens up a northern front in Israel’s latest war.
While the symbolism of Biden’s visit — and the flexing of military muscles — is likely to prevent the conflict from escalating into a wider war involving Iran, the fact remains that Israel itself is about to escalate the…
