The recent statements of Israeli Minister of Public Security, Itamar Ben-Gvir, criticizing US President Joe Biden and their impact on Israeli-American relations have drawn attention from commentators and analysts in the Israeli media. Ben-Gvir’s comments have sparked discussion regarding the anticipated deal with the Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas) and the efforts to derail it.
In an interview with the Wall Street Journal, Ben-Gvir accused Biden of diverting support to humanitarian aid and fuel for Gaza, which ultimately benefits Hamas. He argued that the behavior of the US would have been entirely different if former President Donald Trump were in office.
Israeli media personalities have expressed varying perspectives on Ben-Gvir’s remarks. Political show host, Oded Ben-Ami of Channel 12, suggested that Ben-Gvir is jeopardizing Israel’s relationship with the US. Similarly, political analyst Dana Weiss opined that Ben-Gvir’s comments will prompt the US administration to question their unparalleled support for Israel.
Former army operations chief, Yisrael Ziv, questioned what would have happened to Israel if the Americans and Biden were not present, emphasizing the potential negative consequences of Ben-Gvir’s actions. However, foreign affairs analyst, Gil Tamary, acknowledged Ben-Gvir’s accuracy in one aspect, suggesting that under Trump, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu would have likely received a phone call insisting on the dismissal of Ben-Gvir, or else US support would cease.
Additionally, the extensive support provided by Biden to Israel since the start of the Israeli occupation of Gaza in early October has been highlighted. This includes the dispatch of 100 aircraft loaded with munitions without Congressional approval and a total aid package of $2 billion, with talks of an additional $14 billion in support.
The potential prisoner exchange deal with Hamas has been a topic of controversy. Political analyst Rafi Drucker suggested that the deal consists of two contradictory phases, with the first phase benefitting Israel more politically and the second phase involving the release of heavier-profile prisoners, including Fatah Movement leader Marwan Barghouti. He expressed concerns about the staggering implications of these demands and the prolonged cessation of hostilities.
Natalie Shalit Tov, a political show host, shared the perspective of a released captive from Gaza, highlighting the distressing experience of hearing politicians debate their release while enduring captivity in Hamas tunnels.
In conclusion, the Israeli media’s analysis demonstrates a deep-rooted concern over the impact of Ben-Gvir’s statements on US-Israel relations and the implications of the potential prisoner exchange deal with Hamas. The extensive American support for Israel under Biden’s administration has significantly influenced the ongoing discussions and decisions.
