Netanyahu Hails 'Friend' Trump as Gaza Hostages Released
Benjamin Netanyahu, a man whose political survival often depends on US backing, publicly anointed Donald Trump as Israel's 'greatest friend' as Gaza hostages were being released. Fox News dutifully reported this, highlighting the diplomatic dance without questioning its true purpose. This isn't just a friendly nod; it's a calculated reaffirmation of political alliances, especially as Netanyahu
faces mounting pressure both domestically and internationally for his government's actions. Trump, for his part, solidified his 'friend' status by, among other things, moving the US embassy to Jerusalem and recognizing Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights. These were not acts of benevolent friendship but deeply strategic geopolitical moves, favored by powerful lobbying groups like AIPAC,
which spent over $49 million in 2022 and 2024 cycles on US elections, influencing Congress to maintain steadfast support for Israel. The 'friendship' is transactional, not platonic, ensuring a steady flow of US military aid even as civilian casualties in Gaza soar. One might wonder: how many 'greatest friends' does it take to secure unconditional military support while rejecting ceasefires?