In the wake of recent civilian casualties in Israel, President Biden delivered a resolute denunciation of Hamas terrorists, vowing unwavering support for Israel. This reaffirmation of American leadership was in stark contrast to the political turmoil on Capitol Hill. House Republicans, embroiled in internal strife, struggled to elect a speaker, leaving Congress paralyzed for a second week. This division at home, paired with global crises, has pushed the United States into a precarious position as it heads into a high-stakes election year.
Biden’s commitment to supporting Israel, despite differences, displayed the leadership the world has long expected from the United States. While disagreements with Israel’s leadership have strained relations, the recent attacks necessitated setting aside these differences. The President emphasized the United States’ commitment to stand with Israel in the face of the worst attack on Jews since the Holocaust, as Israel prepares for a hazardous offensive against Hamas.
Throughout history, the United States has been a cornerstone of leadership in democracy-versus-authoritarianism conflicts worldwide. With rising challenges from China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea, America’s role as the world’s superpower is under threat. President Putin’s invasion of Ukraine prompted the Biden administration to rally European allies, demonstrating the importance of American leadership in global crises. However, political divisions and a dysfunctional democracy in the United States threaten its ability to act decisively.
Support for aid to Ukraine has dwindled among Republicans, illustrating the growing discord within the party. While some GOP leaders in Congress continue to support Ukraine, others resist, creating uncertainty in Congress. The need to address the short-term spending bill and elect a new speaker further complicates matters, potentially leading to a government shutdown.
The same question posed to Israel’s internal divisions can be applied to the United States: Have deep divisions and a lack of seriousness in Congress made the country appear distracted and weakened in the eyes of the world? Some, including former President Trump, argue that President Biden’s policies and perceived weaknesses have left the United States vulnerable. They suggest that the chaotic Afghanistan withdrawal emboldened Putin’s actions in Ukraine.
However, the prospect of Trump winning the 2024 election is a more significant concern. His “America First” rhetoric and unpredictable behavior have disrupted a foreign policy consensus that existed for decades. While Trump’s harder stance on China has become the new norm, his erratic behavior continues to worry allies who look to the United States for leadership. Trump’s recent criticism of Israeli leadership and praise for Hezbollah, an organization with close ties to Iran and an anti-Israel agenda, raised alarms globally.