# The State of America's Foreign Policy: Reflecting on the Israel Crisis

The world has been helplessly witnessing the horrific brutalities unfolding in the Middle East over the past few weeks. Attacks on Israel by the Palestinian group Hamas, has shocked the international community and has also shifted the perspective of foreign policy discourse within America.

## Israel - A Time-Tested Ally

Israel, an enduring ally of America, has been facing concentrated, malicious attacks from Hamas which has stirred unprecedented chaos and loss of innocent lives in the region. The attacks are nothing short of barbaric, characterized by cold-blooded executions of civilians, including women and children. Essentially, it represents indiscriminate hatred towards the Jews and violations of human rights on a grand scale. In the light of such alarming occurrences, it is imperative for America, and indeed the world, to support Israel.

## The Implications of America's Domestic and Foreign Policies

While supporting Israel forms an important aspect of U.S-Israel relations, the way America has facilitated grave situations, directly or indirectly, cannot be overlooked. Weapons and supplies left behind during the American withdrawal from Afghanistan have found their way to Gaza. Besides this, the Biden Administration's recent decision to provide Iran with $6 billion has raised several eyebrows. This funding could potentially be used to further fuel the ongoing conflict.

Moreover, the Biden Administration’s reversal of stringent policies towards oil-producing nations has increased the price of oil globally. Coincidentally, this policy shift has been an economic windfall for Iran, thus indirectly boosting its ability to support Hamas.

Finally, the America's poorly regulated, porous southern border might have unintentionally facilitated the entry of individuals with potential hostile intent into the country.

## The Strains of War

In this difficult period as Israel faces its own version of 9/11, a discourse of war is natural. However, caution must be exercised before entering into another long, draining, and costly conflict. The lesson to learn from the aftermath of 9/11 is to focus on eliminating the immediate threats instead of taking on unnecessary wars.

Furthermore, the Republican Party needs a careful introspection. Some figures within the party seem excessively passionate about getting into a war with Iran. While supporting Israel is a non-negotiable commitment, a new elective war abroad should never be our first choice.

## Future Insights

The upcoming days will influence the public's perception of the potential Presidential candidates and their stance on the Israel-Hamas conflagration. It will give the masses a clearer picture of who they can trust on key foreign policy issues, most importantly preserving peace and security in the Middle East.