For decades, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has based his country’s foreign policy on a strong alliance with the United States and a sustained effort to counter the influence of Iran’s leadership. Now, with Israel and the U.S. Engaged in a joint war against Iran, those long-held strategies face a critical test.
A Gamble with Far-Reaching Consequences
By securing U.S. Involvement in what he considers Israel’s fight for survival against Iran, Netanyahu is taking a significant risk. This could strain the relationship between the two countries, potentially leading to a wider war with far-reaching consequences.
Persuading U.S. President Donald Trump to join the war was a major achievement for Netanyahu, demonstrating the strength of their relationship. Success could imply quickly removing the Iranian government and avoiding a prolonged conflict. However, a protracted war could test the alliance.
Ofer Shelah, a research fellow at the Institute for National Security Studies, cautioned that “a large part of the American public will view it as the Israeli tail wagging the American dog and that it is dragging the United States to a war in the Middle East that isn’t theirs.” He added that any resulting drop in public support “will be very harmful for Israel in the medium and long term.”
Shifting Public Opinion
Netanyahu has long positioned himself as Israel’s bridge to America, leveraging his fluency in English and personal connections in Washington. However, support for Israel among the American public has declined in recent years, according to Gallup polling, with sympathies shifting toward the Palestinians.
This shift is largely driven by Democrats, but even some Republicans and supporters of Trump have questioned the continued financial and diplomatic support for Israel, particularly in light of the war sparked by Hamas’ Oct. 7, 2023, attacks and the resulting devastation in Gaza.
Netanyahu views Iran as an existential threat, citing its support for anti-Israeli militias, its ballistic missile arsenal, and its nuclear program. He stated Sunday that U.S. Involvement “allows us to do what I have been hoping to do for 40 years — to deliver a crushing blow to the terror regime.”
Potential for Escalation
In the early days of the war, Israel and the U.S. Military are coordinating strikes, including the attack that killed top Iranian leaders, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. However, the conflict is already having repercussions beyond the immediate battlefield.
At least six U.S. Troops have been killed, travel across the region has been disrupted, and oil prices have surged, potentially leading to higher costs for American consumers. The direction and ultimate aim of the war remain unclear, with questions surrounding the potential for toppling Iran’s leadership and the future role of both Israel and the U.S.
“Many people will blame Israel if things move badly wrong,” wrote Nadav Eyal, a commentator with the Israeli Yediot Ahronoth daily newspaper. “Israel cannot afford to lose the American public’s support under any circumstances. That is more key than striking any individual military facility.”
Aaron David Miller, who advised Democratic and Republican administrations on Middle East issues, suggested that Netanyahu has little to lose from the war, as it allows him to divert attention from the failures of the Oct. 7 attacks and present himself as a strong wartime leader.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Netanyahu hoping to achieve by involving the U.S. In a war against Iran?
Netanyahu hopes to deliver a “crushing blow” to Iran, a goal he has pursued for 40 years, and potentially topple the Iranian government.
Is there concern about the impact of this war on the U.S.-Israel relationship?
Yes, a protracted war could strain the alliance, as public support for Israel is declining in the U.S., and some Americans may view the conflict as being driven by Israeli interests.
What are some of the immediate consequences of the war?
At least six U.S. Troops have been killed, travel has been disrupted, and oil prices have surged.
As the conflict unfolds, what role will shifting public opinion play in shaping the future of this alliance and the broader geopolitical landscape?