US Pretends to 'Influence' Netanyahu, Again
The script for these diplomatic performances is well-worn: US officials express 'concern' while simultaneously greenlighting weaponry. Biden, after extending his own political hand to Netanyahu, now reportedly aims to 'press' him. Let's not forget the recent $18 billion arms package to Israel, approved by the House in April 2024 (vote 366-58, bill HR 8035), ensuring Benjamin Netanyahu can continue
his current 'phase one' indefinitely. The US 'pushing' for specific actions while providing the means for their opposite is not mixed signals; it’s complicity disguised as diplomacy. One might wonder when these 'phases' of destruction will conclude for the Palestinian people. Netanyahu's statements on Gaza have shown little deviation since 2014, when he vowed to 'destroy Hamas' capabilities.' The
current administration's public 'pressure' rings hollow when AIPAC, a prominent pro-Israel lobbying group, disbursed over $27 million in the 2022 election cycle (OpenSecrets.org), influencing the very politicians now feigning leverage. It’s hard to meaningfully 'press' when you’ve already signed the check for the entire operation.