Recent tensions between Iran and Israel have seemingly attracted minimal global attention, once again raising questions about America’s waning influence in the Middle East.
While Washington continues to support Israel even as it continues its genocidal campaign against Palestinians, it appears hesitant about expanding its footprint in the region, preferring to utilize its veto power to scuttle any attempts at accountability at the U.N. For nearly a decade, the U.S. has been gradually reducing its boots on the ground in the Middle, with former president Donald Trump vowing to “bring peace” through economic ties between Israel and Arab states and increased pressure on Iran. The prevailing scenario has rubbished this. Israel’s unceasing hostilities, meanwhile, will prove a challenge for the next U.S. president, who might have to choose between stepping in to restore peace or risk a wider regional conflict by allowing Tel Aviv to continue unchecked.
Unfortunately, the past year of Israeli aggression has all but ensured that “permanent” peace will remain elusive even if the situation changes drastically. At the same time, the world cannot afford to let the prevailing situation—with war between Israel and Iran looming—persist. Once the dust settles from the upcoming U.S. presidential elections, Washington will likely refocus on the Middle East and perhaps even expand its military support for Israel. The U.S. Department of Defense has hinted at the same by announcing it would increase the number of fighter jets and maintain the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier in the region. Following a meeting with Israeli Defense Secretary Yoav Galllant, U.S Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said the U.S.’ support for Israel’s security is “ironclad,” adding Washington will “coordinate with Israel on any future response.”
The saber rattling is unlikely to yield any radical change in the region and the détente between Israel and Iran would likely prevail due to their credible balance of power. Arab states, meanwhile, will continue to silently coexist with Israel, with brief bursts of tensions persisting.