Two dueling congressional letters on Palestinian statehood reveal how toxic Israel has become among Democrats and show just how far AIPAC’s influence has fallen in Washington.
As Donald Trump touts his “21-Point Plan” to end the war in Gaza, Benjamin Netanyahu aims to convince the White House to support the ongoing genocide and possible Israeli annexation of the West Bank. Can he persuade Trump?
Benjamin Netanyahu walked back claims about Israel’s international isolation after causing a stock market crash, but he was right – the Gaza genocide has severely hurt Israel’s standing. We must deepen this isolation through boycotts and sanctions.
Israel has sent a message that its impunity extends even to attacks on states that have close relations with Washington. They need only cry “HAMAS” and any act is acceptable.
The cancellation of visas for Palestinian officials is part of a a wider effort by Israel and the U.S. to prevent international recognition of a Palestinian state, and to further Trump’s grandiose plans for Gaza and Israel’s plans for the West Bank.
This week, the Trump administration invited Jared Kushner and Tony Blair to the White House to discuss the “day after” in Gaza. The meeting was an exercise in fantasy, and its only intended beneficiary was not even present – Benjamin Netanyahu.
The denial of the Gaza genocide has been echoed from the mainstream media to the White House. While reminiscent of Holocaust denial, today’s denials have deadly consequences as they are used to justify the very genocide deniers claim isn’t happening.
Democrats, including those eyeing a 2028 presidential run, are flailing as it becomes clear that supporting Israel is now a political loser. While politicians navigate this new terrain, pro-Israel groups are scrambling to rebuild liberal support.
Donald Trump’s new focus on starvation and aid in Gaza is solely driven by political convenience. Trump never expected that Israel’s actions would damage its standing so badly in the U.S. Now he’s rushing to support an ally he has bet his future on.
France, Great Britain, and Canada’s recognition of a Palestinian state might matter someday. But, as usual, the Palestinians won’t get any immediate help from Europe, much less from North America, in stopping the Gaza genocide now.