In a critical pivot, President Biden's National Security Advisor undertook a landmark meeting with Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas in the West Bank. The meeting comes after hours of intense deliberations with high-profile Israeli officials regarding the escalating conflict against Hamas terrorists. The growing divide between U.S. and Israel signals a shift in international relations.
The divide between President Biden and Prime Minister Netanyahu on the future course of the conflict was evident. The National Security Advisor enlightened the public saying that despite the visible differences, they are still trying to align on multiple issues. The significant disagreements emerged on determining the exact timing of shifting the conflict from an intense to a lesser phase, civilian casualties in Gaza, and the future course once Hamas is eradicated from Gaza.
While Israel officials hint at a protracted war, the Biden administration seems to express concerns over civilian casualties in Gaza. There's a clear difference of opinion on when and under what conditions the conflict will lessen. The U.S. believes Israel has the intention to distinguish between Hamas targets and civilians in Gaza, but the reality on the ground seems to reflect the opposite narrative. The U.S. is demanding a reflection of this intent even before the conflict demonstrates less intensity.
The National Security Advisor's meeting is symbolic considering the diverging viewpoints between the U.S. and Israel, and the latter's stance on the Palestinian Authority. The U.S. appears keen on creating a role for the Palestinian Authority in governing Gaza, contradicting Israel’s position.
Meanwhile, in Gaza, there remains grave concerns about hostages held captive by Hamas terrorists. The Israeli government reported that 132 hostages are still held, with 20 believed to be dead. The Israeli forces have also recovered the bodies of two abducted soldiers from Gaza. It's clear that hostage negotiations and the release of American hostages are focal points in the current discussions.
The U.S.'s direct engagement with both Israel and the Palestinian Authority underlines a strategic shift as they seek potential peace negotiations to resolve the ongoing conflict.
