Just Out: President Biden to Visit Israel and Jordan on Wednesday
Biden's Surprise Visit to Israel and Jordan: Balancing Support and Humanitarian Concerns
Spadework prior to the Presidential Visit
In a very significant development, President Joe Biden is slated to visit Israel on Wednesday, 18th October. Facilitated by U.S. Secretary of State Blinken, who has been stationed in Tel Aviv conducting complex groundwork, the visit aims to solidify America's steadfast allegiance to Israel. Simultaneously, it seeks to explore diplomatic channels to alleviate the humanitarian plight in Gaza, especially as the Israel-Hamas conflict continues unabated. This high-profile engagement occurs at a crucial time, with the Middle East crisis teetering on the brink of escalation.
The Trip was a question of when, not if
Biden's decision to undertake the trip was spurred by an invitation from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, a friendship that extends over four decades. Prior to confirming the visit, the U.S. President consulted in-depth with his chief national security and intelligence advisers. While Secretary Blinken's ongoing diplomatic engagement in Tel Aviv was already perceived as a significant part of the USA's strategy to defuse the crisis, even the most optimistic Middle East observers hadn't anticipated a presidential visit so soon.
Humanitarian Outreach
By agreeing to develop a plan that permits humanitarian aid to reach Gaza's civilians, both the U.S. and Israel have taken an important step forward. Additionally, Biden will also travel to Jordan and meet with key regional players including King Abdullah II of Jordan, President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi of Egypt, and Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, all of whom have denounced the current situation in Gaza.
Symbolic and Practical Implications
The twin trips carry both symbolic and practical implications. They serve not only as a high-profile demonstration of support for Israel but also issue a clear warning to other regional actors, notably Iran and Hezbollah in Lebanon, whilst reflecting the USA's regard for other key neutral players in the region. However, this engagement risks making Biden more closely identified with Israel's actions in Gaza, which could be interpreted as tacit approval of Netanyahu's policies.
Public Sentiment and Pressures
Public opinion is varied. Progressive Jewish groups are organising demonstrations urging the U.S. President to advocate for a ceasefire, thereby increasing the pressure on Biden to foster restraint.
In Summary
In sum, Biden's visit is a nuanced diplomatic endeavour, striving to balance steadfast support for Israel with the humanitarian predicaments in Gaza. It is imperative to watch how events unfold and consider the broader implications they could have on not just the Middle East, but on global geopolitics as well.
