In a recent declaration that raises eyebrows and tempers alike, President Biden made it clear he would not support an Israeli strike on Iranian nuclear sites, even after Iran fired a staggering 181 missiles at Israel. This stance came to light a day after Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed retribution, highlighting a critical rift in the approach to Middle Eastern policy between the Biden administration and Israel.
On the surface, President Biden’s emphasis on a “proportional” response may seem diplomatically cautious, but it underscores a deeper issue: the Biden administration’s reluctance to fully back Israel’s right to defend itself as it sees fit. While Biden nods to proportionality, the grim reality for Israel is that such restraint will not suffice to deter future aggression or neutralize the looming threat of Iranian nuclear capabilities. The question then becomes: How much longer does Biden expect Israel to engage in this perilous tit-for-tat without a decisive resolution?
Israel’s situation is dire, and its stakes are existential. The notion that any retaliation must be “proportional” undercuts the severity of the threat Israel faces. In the volatile theater of Middle Eastern politics, where Iran and its proxy terrorist groups continuously attack Israel, a doctrine of overwhelming and conclusive response is the only deterrent that carries any weight. Proportional responses have not dissuaded aggressors like Iran in the past, nor will they in the future.
Moreover, the Biden administration‘s strategy—or lack thereof—in the region is becoming painfully apparent. In stark contrast, voices like JD Vance advocate a “peace through strength” policy reminiscent of President Trump‘s tenure, which saw significant strides towards stability in the region through unequivocal support for Israel. This approach not only fortified U.S. alliances but also underscored a clear stance against aggression.
As we reflect on the current administration’s failures and the palpable tension in the Middle East, it is increasingly clear that Israel must be empowered to take decisive action to secure its national security and sovereignty. Waiting for international consensus or proportional responses could result in irreparable damage, not just to Israel but to Western values entirely. Now, more than ever, is the time for robust support of Israel, ensuring that they can defend themselves effectively against any and all threats.
