ISRAEL | America's Broken Alliance?

As the war in Gaza continues, tensions between the United States and Israel are growing. This came to a head on 25 March 2024. After vetoing three draft Security Council resolutions calling for a ceasefire, the US abstained on the latest vote, thus allowing the resolution to pass. This led to accusations from the Israeli government that Washington was hampering its effort to defeat Hamas. Set against the backdrop of growing strains between US President Joe Biden and Israel's Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, many are now asking whether the alliance between the United States and Israel is at breaking point?
The special relationship between the United States and Israel has deep roots. Havign taken control of Palestine in the First World War, Britain issued the Balfour Declaration in 1917, which laid the foundation for a Jewish national home. However, while this was endorsed by US President Woodrow Wilson, American support was also balanced by sensitivities towards the Arab Middle East. However, the horrors of the Holocaust catalysed support for Israel's creation and led to a UN plan to partition Palestine. On 14 May 1948, the US became the first country to recognise Israel's independence. But while Washington tried to balance relations in the years that followed and forced Israel to withdraw from Sinai during the 1956 Suez Crisis, the dynamic shifted as the Cold War intensified. After the Six-Day War, Israel became a key ally against Soviet-backed Arab states.
Despite occasional friction, the strategic alliance has steadily strengthened since then. This led to landmark breakthroughs like the Camp David Accords and the Oslo Accords. However, while US-Israel ties have remained strong in the 21st century, the special relationship faces new trials amidst escalating conflicts, notably the recent war in Gaza. Historical US support, typified by vetoing UN resolutions critical of Israel and extensive military aid, came under particular strain in March 2024 when the US abstained from a UN call for a ceasefire. This development, with growing criticism from the Biden Administration, signals potential changes in a historically steadfast alliance. While the strategic partnership remains strong, significant challenges may be on the horizon.
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VIDEO CHAPTERS
00:00 Introduction and Titles
00:52 Special Relationships in International Relations
01:39 The United States and the Creation of Israel
03:36 The Emergence of the US-Israel Special Relationship
06:23 The United States and Middle East Peace Processes
08:08 US Support for Israel since 2000
10:14 The United States and Israel’s War in Gaza
12:22 Are US-Israel Relations at Breaking Point?
SOURCES AND FURTHER READING
Israel | Ministry of Foreign Affairs
www.gov.il/en/departments/min...
US State Department | Israel
www.state.gov/countries-areas...
American Israel Public Affairs Committee | AIPAC
www.aipac.org
Council on Foreign Relations | U.S. Aid to Israel
www.cfr.org/article/us-aid-is...
Question of Palestine | Vetoed Resolutions
www.un.org/unispal/document-c...
EQUIPMENT USED TO MAKE THIS VIDEO
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MAP CONTENT
www.themaparchive.com
DISCLAIMERS
- The contents of this video and any views expressed in it were not reviewed in advance nor determined by any outside persons or organisation.
- Some of the links above are affiliate links. These pay a small commission if you make a purchase. This helps to support the channel and will be at no additional cost to you.
#Israel #UnitedStates #Palestine

[@JamesKerLindsay]

This is another topic I’ve wanted to cover for ages. The relationship between Israel and the United States is fascinating in all sorts of ways and has a somewhat less straightforward history than many realise. But how should we understand the current tensions? Is the rift deeper or shallower than it seems? And should the US continue to bear the diplomatic burden of supporting Israel if this Israeli Government (or a future one) doesn’t make any effort to reach a comprehensive final settlement on Palestine? As always, I look forward to your comments below.

[@berkosmansatiroglu]

There are very few things that upset Jews. Because they existed before BC. They are doing what is written in their holy books. You cannot understand it with Western values. I hope Uncle Sam doesn't upset the Jews any more.

[@berkosmansatiroglu]

You must read The Carter Doctrine.

[@SpicyTake]

13:00 With respect professor, there are plenty of signs that US support of Israel is weakening. Biden is almost certainly going to lose his re-election over this one issue. By 2028, it will be unlikely possible that any Democrat could win the presidency while supporting Israel. Even support within the Republican voting base is starting to falter as evangelicalism has been in decline. American politicians have a lot of intellectual inertia. Most are not particularly savvy. Ultimately they will get the message and do what is necessary to remain in power.

[@NoName-semi-censored]

All US federal political offices must pass several tests before receiving monetary compensation from a foreign government. Pledge allegiance to said foreign nation without question. And in return - receive two things… Political campaign donations, and not being labeled as antisemitic… Failure to pay homage to Israel as a U.S. federal politician means being labeled antisemitic - and actively promoting your political opponents. Basically ending your political career. The relationship is basically blackmail and reward. And it’s all out in the open and legal.

[@FlamingBasketballClub]

Iceland Men's National Football Team won 4-1 against Israel in Euro 2024 playoffs last month. That's a massive win for the integrity of football. 👊🏿

[@servanttotruth3483]

So many issues started with Britain.

[@EdMcF1]

Railways, Michael Faraday's discoveries, stamping out the Atlantic Slave Trade, the laws of gravity, Industry, yes.

[@oldgreybeard2507]

Remember that the division of the Middle East was a joint French British venture. The strong do what they can and the weak suffer what they must. Thucydides

[@KapiteinKrentebol]

It started with people smoking way too much pot and getting crazy ideas of religion approx. 5000 years ago.

[@memofromessex]

Penicillin, world wide web, the steam engine, evolution, vaccination, animal rights, conservation, telegraph, football, rugby, tennis, abolishing the slave trade of East Africa, ending of Sati, the defeat of an autocratic Germany twice, the defeating Napoleon, defeating Russia in the Crimea, liberating South America from Spanish tyranny, liberation of Portugal from the Muslims, Reflecting Telescope, the seed drill, abolishing slavery in West Africa, Bill of Rights, Habeas Corpus, the British Parliament, computer programming, cricket, whiskey, polio vaccine, the modern concept of Human Rights, etc. etc. Just think of the millions and millions people have freed from the shackles of slavery thanks to Britain's opposition to the slave trade - a trade that preceded the Atlantic Slave trade by thousands of years, and no doubt would still be an industry today. Or would have died without Britain's leading the way in medical advancements.

[@billybrooks3780]

The Ottoman Empire planted the Zionist seed by starting the immigration of Zionists to what is the land of Palestine/Israel, the British watered it and the Americans pruned it.

[@tiredox3788]

I think you should've mentioned Russia and Israeli relationship too.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks. Maybe something for another video. I tend to find that trying to cram too many elements into a video only makes it confusing.

[@inam8473]

So what I observed is that Israel has only faced crticism and nothing else for its illegal activities for the past 70 years and uptil today aswell

[@lapun47]

While Palestinian violence toward Israelis has received no criticism at all.

[@AntiDegenerate1971]

​@@lapun47 Palestinians are oppressed though, it's normal for such people to lash out. If Israel treated them fairly and gave them equal rights, and stopped with the illegal settlements, the violence would stop.

[@eyalnir1327]

​@@AntiDegenerate1971 That's pretty naive and not historically accurate. Palestinian violence started before the creation of the state of Israel, 1929 Hebron massacre is one example. Previous efforts for peace resulted in Palestinian rejection and violence. Hamas themselves have a genocidal and antisemitic charter and it's the ruling authority in Gaza. I am an Israeli left winger and I do object to the settlements and the right-wing government, yet I don't think that any government action could achieve peace in the near term.

[@Caro-ys4kk]

@@eyalnir1327If you had remained in your countries of origin, Eastern Europe, and not tried to immorally colonize another people’s land and force yourself into the Middle East , none of this would have happened. You are not middle easterners, and you had and have no right to displace and dispossess another people. The holocaust didn’t happen in the Middle East, the holocaust and antisemitic pogroms in Europe, had nothing to do with Palestinians and the wider Middle East. This conflict has made it clear that you in fact belong in Europe where you are from.

[@historydiscover]

@@eyalnir1327 The British occupied Palestine for 30 years stating in 1917 and declared that they will make a new state for immigrants from Europe. Every other person in human history would have resisted this and Palestinians are no different than any other person in history resisting colonization. From 1947-1949 over 530 Palestinian villages were destroyed and my family are now in refugee camps all over Palestine and refugees all over Earth. I do truly enjoy seeing how people try to justify this though.

[@markdowding5737]

This is not the first UNSC resolution criticizing Israel that the US has abstained (UNSC 2334). For the last few years, there has been a pattern of when Israel escalates things the US becomes increasingly frustrated until eventually does something to show its frustration with Israel's actions. But when things calm down all sides just sort of forget everything that happened and go back to having good relations. Netanyahu might also be betting that Biden will leave the white house in the upcoming presidential elections (as most analysts predict) and wait for the return of his buddy Donald Trump who is a staunch Israel supporter.

[@thetitansofbrahma6702]

Your balanced and dispassionate analysis is a relief to hear in the current polarized environment. Edit: You ask for views on this. Israel and Palestine both have the “right to exist”, even if a virulent zero sum mentality seems to be gaining steam. The U.S. must remain engaged, and continue to fail to find a solution, until a solution is eventually found.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you so much. I really appreciate it. I completely agree. I support the right of Israel to exist. And I support the right of the Palestinians to have their own state. And I do still believe that the United States is a crucial actor in that process.

[@flight-at-the-speed-of-light]

Why does israel have the right to exist ? Is the term of 'occupation' that hard to understand ? 😖

[@piotrtchaikovski6674]

It's interesting to see the only country that interfers so clearly and openly in internal affairs in the United States isn't Russia or China but it's israel The lobbying groups have became so powerful it would be uncomfortable for anyone with power to stand against Israel

[@rashathor4878]

Do the American people know about that?

[@vontai4553]

That’s definitely not true .. Until another country near the Suez is seen to be a reliable partner with America lobbying or not Israel will continue to see broad support from politicians

[@piotrtchaikovski6674]

@@vontai4553 are you going to ignore the effect AIPAC and ADL have on American politics? Are you going to ignore the fact the only US adversary in the region is Iran, who was a reliable partner of America until the CIA did what it's known for? Are you going to ignore reality?

[@sepulcher8263]

@@rashathor4878 Yes

[@bluegold1026]

The lobbyists are the reason Biden and Congress are dragging their feet when it comes to brokering a ceasefire. Lobbying needs to be outlawed. It's corruption in all but name only.

[@TheLocalLt]

This was a fantastic and much-needed breakdown, cutting through all the noise. Thanks as always for your tempered analysis professor!

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you so much LocalLt. Always great to hear from you. I hope all is well at your end.

[@IAmNumber4000]

What do people even mean when they refer to Israel's "Right to exist"? This is a state we're talking about, and a _state_ can't have rights the same way a person can. It's really starting to sound like people really mean "Israel's right to ethnically cleanse the people who were already living there". You don't have some inherent, unalienable right to steal from someone else. Edit: Israel’s leadership has clearly committed to “might makes right”, flouting international law. If someone else conquers them (I.e. Iran), what is the issue, from the moral framework they operate with? “Right to exist” is just more propaganda designed to obscure the real strategic reason why the West ships weapons to Israel. The west doesn’t have some inherent moral duty to defend Israel, if their position in the region is untenable then that’s not our responsibility, and it’s absurd to let them drag us into another war.

[@purplespades9632]

Yeah,and Zionism was created by the Europeans out of xenophobia.

[@g1u2y345]

The thing is the people of Israel are already there, we have to deal with the reality of the situation we live in. It is fair to say, the people of Israel have the right to self-determination. This does not mean they have the right to take Gaza or the West Bank though.

[@josemaria123100]

israel project is in palestine.why they do not respect that?if you ocupied the land, you do not have the right to nothing.75 years killing palestinians and you have any right?

[@humanbeing4841]

The Arabs ethnically cleansed the Jews when Israel declared independence.

[@AntiDegenerate1971]

​​@@g1u2y345 Israelis have already proved they don't wanna give up west bank or Gaza, so I believe there won't be peace because there won't be peace in the region as long as there isn't an independent Arab Palestinian nation.

[@CashSache]

We should remember the United States, along the United Kingdom, were the last holdouts supporting Apartheid South Africa. New century, old apartheid but the support continues.

[@nataliamundell6266]

I would like you to research what apartheid is and then look into politics between Israel and Palestine rather then just snappy slogans

[@garrettallen7427]

OH MY GOD ITS ALMOST LIKE THOSE WHO ACTUALLY KNOW GEOPOLITICS HAVE TO BALANCE BETWEEN UNENDING INTERESTS AND CHANGING MORALITY!

[@nataliamundell6266]

@@garrettallen7427 why all in cap locks shouting doesn't make you any smarter

[@FlamingBasketballClub]

​@@nataliamundell6266 Clown world response has been spotted.

[@CashSache]

@@nataliamundell6266 I would like you to do the same. They're at least half a dozen papers- by Palestinian, Israelis, and other human rights groups- detailing the system of Apartheid Israel has constructed. The term is not a slogan; It's descriptive.

[@CoffeeSuccubus]

Israel is probably the most difficult thing to discuss in world politics. However you professor, you did the best you can explaining things. I bet you had to be VERY careful when making this video.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

I tried my best. But I’m sure I’ll still be accused of outrageous bias!

[@mohamedali2858]

@@JamesKerLindsay Bush said it during his war on Iraq: Either you are with us or you are against us

[@Soldier_ov_Satan]

(((They))) are the reason you are afraid to talk about Israel.

[@joshuagrahm3607]

In that it’s very difficult for powers to extricate themselves from the country? Sure. Israel has the US by the short hairs because it could solicit Chinese sponsorship overnight by selling US military secrets to them. Morally? No, it’s pretty simple. Israel is an illegitimate state born of nationalistic colonial desire and broken treaties with the people who were already living in Palestine

[@coloaten6682]

@@mohamedali2858 And that was a hugely stupid thing for Bush to say.

[@Mahc32]

American here and don’t support US aid to Israel whatsoever

[@Abdi-zv6ex]

Four billions dollars a year and expensive weapons from United State, Israel maybe have powerfull lobbies in United State.

[@fialeks]

Nah, Israel does not interfere in US politics. This label is reserved for Russia. Israel is a Friend.

[@imhere8380]

they do..................they rule the USA.

[@fialeks]

@@imhere8380 Nooo, can't be right.

[@jefferybrown6473]

@@fialeks A "friend" who repeatedly spies on and blackmail us.

[@tatianapavel9858]

1917... it makes you rethink both WWs' history 😢

[@yotzap]

than, what do you think?

[@KC_G4S]

Great video, one small nitpick: the photo used at 5:50 is of C-17 Globemaster III aircraft facing the camera, which did not enter service until 1995. Additionally, all aircraft are sporting USAF Air Mobility Command’s gray paint livery, which was introduced after the Gulf War. All of this is to say this photo couldn’t have been from an operation in 1973. Searching around it appears the Nixon Foundation made this mistake first, which is where I assume the error originates. Again, great video overall, just a slight nitpick.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Haha! Thanks. Brilliant. Strangely, and as you rightly pointed out, I got this image from the Nixon Presidential Library. For some reason, I assumed it would be accurate. The irony of this situation should surely not be lost on anyone reading this comment! :-)

[@hugowilliams1988]

US has been used for 70 years and didn't know it.

[@brendasmart553]

The people have known it!

[@Aschraffff]

They know, and love being used.

[@Melia_67]

Each and every US president not matter democrat or republican has always put the interest of Israel over the US…. Very bizarre and I wonder why..

[@RobertPaulsen-gk8qc]

the United States breaks its own laws (Leahy Law and Symington Amendment) to give billions to an apartheid state running frequent budget surpluses. American aid to Israel is immoral, illegal, and unnecessary.

[@aussiviking604]

😂 You mean they been making a motza for 75years. Israel is extremely profitable for the cartel. That business 👌

[@MrJoneschase]

I think a lot of the younger Americans are insanely less supportive of Israel. Netanyahu and Israel lost the media battle and didn't even bother really doing anything about it. Especially, when all we're now seeing is just devastated cities in Gaza and that these people are basically trapped between Israel and Egypt with nowhere to flee. Bibi is also a major part of the problem because it's downright impossible to really like the guy based off what he says and does (Israeli polling seems to indicate they don't even like him). Anyways, as far as American public opinion goes it has been slipping for quite some time and the next generation is going to tolerate a lot less from Israel than they've become used to.

[@geofflepper3207]

Your comment is fine except that the term "insanely" is far from the best choice.

[@er...]

Lost media battle because TikTok. They can't control the narrative & algorithm. That's the real reason for the ban, not "privacy." The gravity of the situation is heavily censored & sanitized on US-controlled platforms. It's not China meddling, it's US/Israel.

[@er...]

The media lost the battle due to TikTok's narrative and algorithm, which they can't control. The actual reason for the ban is not "privacy," but rather this lack of control. The severity of the situation is significantly censored and sanitized on platforms controlled by the US. It's not interference from China, but from the US/Israel.

[@er...]

My comment keeps disappearing, which only proves the point I was trying to make... f* youtube censorship

[@er...]

Lost media cuzTikTok. Can't control narrative/algorithm. Real reason for the ban, not "privacy." The gravity of the situation is heavily censoredsanitized on US-controIIed platforms. It's not China meddling, it's USisrael.

[@naasikhendricks1501]

10:26 you forgot the haniball directive.

[@marygrace7016]

Americans so called "special relationship" with Israel cannot break up fast enough.

[@henrybn14ar]

Why is that? How would the USA benefit?

[@thomassenbart]

It won't.

[@marygrace7016]

@@thomassenbart It will. Israel will to the way of Apartheid South Africa.

[@marygrace7016]

@@henrybn14ar Israel is a giant burden on Americans global standing with us funding their wars and defending their indefensible.

[@thomassenbart]

@@marygrace7016 You don't know your history. Apartheid did not end because of boycotts, which S. Africa resisted quite easily. It ended when the white regime decided to end it. This probably happened because de Klerk wanted to avoid open bloodshed. In retrospect, many S. Africans probably regret the decision which led to the ANC and black power in the country. Since then, the nation has basically become a quasi-failed state.

[@ferdiankhu]

From victim to be a prepeator.. So disappointing

[@tanyaperrin8844]

Why is the world so fu@ked up?

[@braxxian]

Actually compared to this time last century the world is amazingly peacefully.

[@thomassenbart]

Blame the terrorists.

[@user-oc6dh2yp2w]

Globalization and new information technologies are the two main reasons. Globalization causes displacements, migration, loss of jobs, sense of insecurity, etc. This in turn, helps marginal, populist and extremist groups to come to power. Information technologies such as social networks help marginal, populist and extremist groups to recruit new members, as well as to consolidate and mobilize themselves.

[@naasikhendricks1501]

Bibi said even if the hostages are released he wont stop.

[@jaymudd2817]

Gaza Strip is but a Sliver. I ain't cryin' no damn River.

[@educatethemonster6198]

You would if you lived there…..and had your land stolen and your family terrorised!

[@oldgreybeard2507]

Once again my thanks

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks so much. I really appreciate it.

[@perrybonnell6060]

The rift will not increase or jeopardise the status quo with respect to the US and Israeli relationship. It’s an election year in the US so I believe a lot of what is said publicly is window dressing. The US will remain a staunch ally of Israel militarily and on the geopolitical scene for the foreseeable future.

[@AntiDegenerate1971]

Yes but eventually the military aid will stop. There just needs to be proper leadership changes in specific key positions of the US establishment.

[@trikkid]

Nicely balanced and unbiased analysis. Thank you.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you.

[@MrTomoti]

Hello James, can you cover the Corfu Channel Case which took place in 1946. The representative from Nicaragua Carlos Arguello Gomez, presented the case at the ICJ that Germany may have facilitated the genocide in Gaza. During his presentation, Mr Gomez referenced the ruling of the ICJ that Britain put forwards against Albania. How do these cases relate? Thanks.

[@Tini_Scrapitti]

Even Realpolitiks has limits, but the consequences beyond such could be shattering.

[@Munthasir123]

Professor I wanted to start by saying you did an excellent job at covering such tricky geopolitical analysis. If there is one criticism I can offer that would be that in many parts of the video the assumption was that viewers are well versed in the matter. I know there is a time constraint and knowing you for a long time I know it was done with honest intent but I still wanted to point that out.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks. It is always difficult to cover everything in detail and keep the video to a manageable length. I thought I had scripted it to be accessible to all viewers. Thanks for pointing out that it might not have been.

[@MB-xq3pq]

the irony of becoming what you once hated

[@henrybn14ar]

What point are you trying to make.

[@thomassenbart]

Ridiculous assertion. If Israel did not react powerfully to Arab aggression, it would have been crushed in 48.

[@nazimhk]

These changes might be temporary bearing in mind the world opinion. Sure, the weapons and military aid will continue behind the scene. This is just to stop the world moving against the US. Prof. James has given a very good review, but these feelings that I have expressed are based on past history. Hope things will end up peacefully.

[@taylorbrowning3297]

This is a thoughtful, well done historic break down of a very complicated issue. While I understand why the US supported Israel in the past, they are behaving worse than Russia, our self proclaimed nemesis, so it seems pretty hypocritical and it undermines the US position on the world stage as beacons of freedom, democracy and self-determination

[@bluecoffee8414]

This was so informative and clearly laid out. Thank you!

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you so much for the kind comment. Really appreciated!

[@varunrajesh6516]

No. The US is simply concerned that a Rafah invasion combined with reckless military strikes could endanger the Camp David Peace Accords due to Rafah being right near the Egyptian border (refugee crisis + Sinai becoming a battlefield again). There's also a possible domino effect with UAE then suspending diplomatic relations and Saudi Arabia ruling out diplomatic relations. Both countries could then deepen ties with Russia and China. Also the US wants Israel to prepare to fight Iran which explains the massive amount of US weapon shipments to Israel. That stuff isn't for taking out Hamas in Rafah. Israel has more than enough military resources to do that already. There's probably also a concern that Israel is focusing its attention too much on Gaza and so will be unprepared for a military confrontation with Iran due to spread out military resources. I think there's also a fear that all or most of the hostages are dead at this point and so this indeed is a tactic used to embroil Israel endlessly in Gaza without a sustained victory.

[@MuiltiLightRider]

Saudi and UAE are not gonna deepen security ties with Russia and China. China can't reach the Persian Gulf with their navy and neither can Russia. The US is sending military equipment not to prepare a fight with Iran, it's to keep Israel stocked up to deal with Hezbollah. The US doesn't want Israel to launch a war against Iran. The Israelis are the ones escalating right now to (I presume) force escalation with Iran and draw the US in. This would let them take out Hezbollah in a conflict by forcing the US to back them

[@jellyrcw12]

I would say this is an accurate assessment

[@DawtoVA]

I certainly appreciate seeing this video, I am really open to learning the political history of the Middle East. I don't know if you read many comments Professor Ker-Lindsay, but I am aware of some history regarding ethnic violence between the Israeli and Arab inhabitants of the area; I'm really curious on what you would have had to say regarding that aspect of the history between the two, as it definitely seems relevant to this topic because the foundation of Israel created lots of tension in that area and there was a massive demographic change and there was violence perpetrated on both sides, making the situation as tense as it is today. I know just enough (or so I think), but I really was interested to see what you could have to say regarding that specific aspect. I really wanted to see what you had to say; I do not know if it is too contentious for you to speak on, or if you thought the topic simply was less relevant to the political history, but could you comment on any thoughts about that?

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you so much for the incredibly kind comment. Regarding the ethnic violence before the creation of Israel, I wish I could give you a definitive answer. However, this isn't something that I have explored in detail. It is another profoundly contentious and contested dimension of the conflict.

[@emirhanberber9509]

We living in the Middle East have been destroying each other for years. At this rate, the war will never end. While people are interested in space, we are continuing the war that has been going on for 5000 years. My country that is in the best situation is Turkey. Kurdish, Turkish, Greek, Circassian, Armenian, Jewish, Arab, Zaza, Assyrian, Yazidi, Bulgarian, Bosnian, Albanian, etc. We can live together. The most important reason for this is that our founder Atatürk saw everyone who worked for his country and felt Turkish as a Turk. The Middle East, where thousands of ethnic groups live, is built on very fine balances. A little manipulation has brought nothing but death to Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, Palestine, Sudan, Libya, Karabakh, Bosnia, the Caucasus and others. Another fact that distant countries play on these balances.

[@jellyrcw12]

Thank you for this thoughtful video

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you so much. It was a topic I had really wanted to cover for a long time.

[@jayc4562]

Just as long as American legislators are available for purchase I don't see the situation changing much. However Arab states are getting more and more involved in the bidding.

[@patrickhenry6695]

It’s not real until the arms shipments stop

[@davidhinkley]

Exactly! In fact, I say when all aid stops flowing to the wealthy nation of Israel and starts flowing to Palestine with military guards.... including food, water, medicine, medical and infrastructure materials and tools, at least.

[@thomassenbart]

They won't. We like Israel.

[@edbloom2327]

How would America have felt if world had sided with Al Quida after 9/11?

[@rezrunnercl]

Rediculous comparison. Was American a brutal occupier.? Was Al Quidas purpose to gain their freedom from our optession? 10/7 was a direct result of Israel's 75 years of brutality. They are an Apartheid State. How dare you compare the two events. Besides, many of our enemies are because we protect Israel right or wrong. Maybe without them, we would not have so many enemies. We've supported a lot of "wrong" or failed to call them on obviously bD acts. Like all their illegal settlements and land theft. Noone calls Israel on their sins. No wonder the world is angry with us.

[@davidellis2182]

Al-Qaeda*. Why would the world have sided with a group of religious fanatics who'd just murdered thousands of innocent civilians overseas?

[@davelowinger7056]

Why aren't they allowed into talking people into being evil into talking people into hurting other people for their own good❤

[@mohamedjama9185]

Insightful

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you.

[@xberman]

This is a difficulty topic and it is impossible to objectively cover all aspects of the conflict and of the "special" relationship, but I think that the "crisis" should be viewed much more in light of the American pivot to Asian and it's withdrawal from the ME and Iran's growing influence in the region. The current war has very little to do with the creation of a Palestinian state along side Israel. America, and maybe the Israeli left are the only ones pursuing it (maybe). Hamas, Hizballah, the Houthis, Kata'ib Hezbollah in Iraq, IRGC and the Syrian govt are on one side and they don't understand the "Zionist entity" as a legitimate state regardless of its borders. It is so hard to think of the creation of a Palestinian state as something that Israel could just "create" regardless of the will of the actors on the ground and live in peace with as happy neighbors. On the other hand is obvious that Biden's pressure on Israel is in line with his decision to abandon Afghanistan and the Kurds and leave only token troops in Iraq and Syria, and Iranian growing influence over those states. I'm not saying that there is nothing that Israel should do about Palestinians, but the relationship has other important developments outside of their control

[@DA-uv1fs]

7:28 The Oslo Accords did not include "a commitment to recognize a Palestinian state". The text of the agreement does not refer to the future of creation of a Palestinian state. Yitzhak Rabin opposed the creation of a Palestinian state, instead calling for "something less than a state". Please include a correction.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

No. The clear understanding was a two state solution. All your comment says is that Rabin had no intention to honour the terms of the deal. (Interestingly, I rather think this is just your interpretation. I’ve made lots of videos on Israel-Palestine and I have mentioned the Oslo Accords many times. But you’re the only person to ever make this point.)

[@AnonyMous-ij8ri]

As a person who speaks Hebrew, there are recordings of Rabin making speeches during the Oslo period where he explicitly states he does not support full Palestinian statehood, but only limited autonomy under Israel's security control. Are you an expert or what?

[@1888bry]

Look at the ones we can not talk about. Gods special ones. Uss liberty was covered up well, miitary men threatened if they talk.

[@Kyrephare]

If a new Israeli government came into power, I believe that most of the tensions would reset. I think a lot has to do Netanyahu himself. The fact that he has been in power for so long in Israel has made him the face of Israel's maximalist policies. New leadership would allow Israel a chance to re-calibrate their approach, and I think in the US they would give a new government a shot to see if they can do better. I think an underlying issue as well is when Netanyahu backed Mitt Romney in the 2012, he turned broad, Bipartisan support for Israel into a more partisan topic. I think by so overtly picking a side in a presidential election had many democrats ask the question 'why should we support this guy?". What do you see now? The last major in person diplomatic exchange was Benny Gantz, the opposition leader, meeting with Kamela Harris a month ago.

[@davidhinkley]

Based on what? Everyone else running for gov't positions there has approved of what is being done in Palestine or wanted to more, faster. All of his opposition is only due to the many crimes he's committed within Israel and the eroding of court powers. An opinion is meaningless when it isn't based on reality.

[@Kyrephare]

​@@davidhinkley An AP poll in January showed that only 5% of voters listed the the Hamas- Israel conflict as a major concern for voters in the upcoming election. Honestly, very few people ever voted with the "oh how did my congressman vote in relation to Israeli/Palestinian relations?" in the past, even with all the crimes. Oh and a Gallup poll in February showed that 58% of the US still had a favorable view of Israel, only down 10% from 68% from the year prior. Netanyahu though had a 33% approval rating from US citizens and 47% disapproval (the remaining were undecided). I interpret that as seeing Netanyahu as the issue, not relations with Israel as a whole. Most have no clue who Benny Gantz is. They will just see him as the new guy from the "opposition party" even if his party is a mirror of Likud except without Netanyahu at the helm. He also wouldnt be beholden to the far right of Israeli politics like Netanyahu currently is. Also let me ask you this: If/when this conflict calms down and leaves the daily news feeds, who has the more influential lobby group in the US? Israel or Palestine? So yeah, I dont see why the relationship wouldnt bounce back so long as new leadership can at least give lipservice to cooperation with both parties the US, and limiting collateral damage. Hopefully that is enough to show that my opinion is not in fact "baseless".

[@peterkops6431]

An important story to cover. Done in your usual contextual manner. Thanks as always Prof 👍🏻👍🏻

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you so much, Peter. I hope all is well at your end. Have a great weekend!

[@richiesd1]

Technicality here, I don’t believe there is an alliance treaty between USA and Israel. It’s the USA being beholden to Israel John Mearsheimer wrote a book on that.

[@thomassenbart]

Correct, no real alliance exists.

[@clouds2593]

You need to cover the bombing of a sovereign territory of Iran in Syria, their consulate by israel.

[@davidanderson9664]

No. The bombing was an annex. Anyway... look up 1980 for Iranian respect for the Geneva Diplomatic/Embassy respect. Hostage crisis anyone? Pick up a book my friend, learn Iranian history please. respectfully, D.A. NYC

[@aaronmercer8318]

@@davidanderson9664 what do you mean by “an annex”? And because of what Iran did in 1980 they don’t deserve to be treated like everyone else now?

[@TurinTurambar200]

@@aaronmercer8318 you should look into Iranian rhetoric regarding Israeli statehood over the last few decades.

[@bilic8094]

Maybe they had wrong maps like when nato hit the Chinese embassy in Belgrade Serbia.

[@thomassenbart]

Iran is the reason behind October 7 and is engaged in a shadow war against Israel.

[@Todd.B]

Thx Prof., not as entertaining as your video on Italy and San Marino. I'm going to sustain on this one, basically because I haven't figured out what my position is on this one. When hasn't Israel attacked Gaza? I was watching this incredible video on 9/11 and what was on the news that day? Israel attacking Gaza. The whole situation just makes want to scream in frustration. Have a great weekend.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks, Todd. Haha! Italy-San Marino was a lot of fun to make! :-)

[@user-gy1ed1kg2d]

Am I correct in understanding that Hamas is not fundamentally Palestinian in creation or leadership but their troops are in some part acquired by enlistment of local Palestinians.

[@terryfox9344]

You are essentially correct. Hamas is the military wing of the Muslim Brotherhood, which I believe was founded in Egypt. The rulers of Egypt fear Hamas and the Muslim Brotherhood, which is why they have closed their border and refuse to accept any Palestinians in their country. The primary difference between Hamas and the PLO/PLA is that Hamas is religious/Sunni Muslim, while the PLO/PLA are secular (originally backed by Russia).

[@AntiDegenerate1971]

​@@terryfox9344 Hamas is actually backed by Iran now just like Hezbollah. These are mostly Iranian proxies.

[@peterhumphrys]

I must admit to being a little indifferent to the issue even though I studied Near Eastern History at Uni, as I really don't care for either Israel or Palestine, both contain exceptionally objectionable groups within their borders, though I perceive the long term direct threat to North American security to be far greater from the Muslim Palestinians whose direct threats against the Western way of life should be taken with all seriousness!

[@philsidock]

This is certainly an interesting time in terms of Israeli politics. I wonder how the U.S. will react to the upcoming actions in Gaza because I really don't know.

[@johntan9151]

Good outline of historical facts. Civilization began in that region from ancient times.. And if this war escalates, World War 3 may be the consequence. Already military leaders in US have sounded the alarm. Time for leaders to ensure peace returns.

[@AlexGreat87]

Professor, I have to disagree in one point completely: The US will not broker any peace initiative any time soon; the US is not in the hegemonic position that it used to be and the Palestine public (as much as the general sentiment in the region) is that the US would not be a neutral mediator. I see China, or even Brazil with Netanyahu out of the government being mediators more than the US.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

The US might not be the hyperpower it once was, but it is still a crucial actor in international politics. No other country exerts the leverage on Israel necessary to persuade it to act, and then to safeguard its security after a settlement, as the United States.

[@stevejohnson3357]

The 2 sides know each other very well. It's almost as if they already have some sort of sub rosa agreement. If one side seems to be ready to settle, the other does something to torpedo it and they kind of take turns. But really its just that neither side wants 2 states so where does one start?

[@terryfox9344]

The only "side" that want's "2 states" is a large group of utopian fools living in the US. They have no clue how impossible their dream is.

[@zurielsss]

Both sides are hijacked by their extremist arms in politics. Israel by Netanyahu and Palestine by Hamas, they are the 2 parties that are torpedoing any chance of peace

[@danielwilkinson3173]

Very unfair to suggest an occupier and occupied are equal by any means. Palestine are trying hard to just get a state and UN membership. They have no power to torpedo anything that the Israeli's do.

[@brendasmart553]

@@danielwilkinson3173 thanks for this, as I mistook this as team usZion dysfunction in my initial too sleepy brain reply yikes?!!! usZion pits the game against Palestine & her people horribly and the whole military occupation has to stop! Sooner the better!!! Save Palestine -Save Humanity!! PEACE will follow...

[@jasonweaver6524]

If the relationship between the USA and Israel is diminished, or if the USA loses its position as global hegemon, Israel will draw on the experience of 4 millennium of how to leech onto the next global superpower for support of its ambitions in Palestine and globally.

[@lordfedjoe]

They can't do that with China

[@jasonweaver6524]

@@lordfedjoe I agree with you, but they will try, because they know that like most Asian nations, China has an affinity for corruption.

[@rod9829]

What about US-Sammarinese relations?

[@davelowinger7056]

Am I say it's been really tough for me to understand the ideas of Civility after the s*** I've been through who sings to Sweet old Baptist lady I get it

[@54032Zepol]

Dang that's brutal, what are we gonna do Professor James?

[@darongardner4294]

The differences between the two are historically ideological religious,you need to understand the main long term aims of both which if you look back in time historically are about the destruction of one or the other due to opposing differences.In capital cities around the world they live side by side .Co exsistance is achievable by the laws that prevail to include both in different countries.So sad that in 2024 they are still doing what they did thousands of years ago.

[@jdhabdsudcbld]

Ugh, wake me up when the Levantine Confederation exists

[@joshuagrahm3607]

1:45 our story begins with the Brits and French betraying the Arabs they promised to aid in exchange for rebelling against the ottomans and then gunning down the people who were already living in Palestine. That’s where the story starts.

[@guledsm]

Brother we missed you.

[@socialminds9894]

Great Analysis!

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you so much!

[@fevzidemir5946]

Greeting from Turkiye 🇹🇷

[@SimonWallwork]

I've never really understood the US/ Israeli alliance- and after watching this I still don't get it.

[@folofus4815]

Basically there are a lot of very wealthy Jewish people in the United States (we have this highest percentage Jewish population other than Israel in the world) plus a lot of southern evangelicals hold to the heresy of dispensationalism which holds Jews as more important than other people because they’re god’s chosen, so those things combined cause strong support for Israel here

[@TeeTee-zm2re]

AIPAC, Christian zionism and the west has more in common with the white Israelis than brown Palestinans.

[@user-fi2fk2ei7o]

evangelist christian

[@bilic8094]

​@@folofus4815Aipac wields a lot of political power.

[@varunrajesh6516]

Israel is the greatest check on Iran that the US could ask for. Israel also allows the US a foothold in the region. They give the US leverage when it comes to dealing with very much opportunistic governments like Egypt who'd switch over to Russia and China in a heartbeat without US presence and pressure. Ultimately the relationship pre 1979 (before Camp David Accords and Iranian Revolution) was optional. The relationship after 1979 is necessary.

[@user-kn1uo9uy2i]

Does anybody wonder why they were rejected

[@tomerkritz]

You should have described the internal political situation in Israel and the distinct possibility of a drastic change in Israel’s strategy after the probable upcoming elections in Israel that will decimate the likud party in Israel

[@terryfox9344]

Are you one of Obama/Biden's advisors? Contrary to rich, leftist American Jews this war is NOT about internal Israeli politics, Biden's attempted overtures to Israeli Jews are a total disaster and fiasco, there are no upcoming elections, and if there were and Biden supports a party, that party might get 1% of the vote, at most. No one in Israel supports Biden or his evil puppet master, Obama. Hamas and Biden have destroyed the political left in Israel, just as Obama destroyed the Democrat Party in most of America.

[@bencordell1965]

But theyre the chosen ones

[@christopher-ke9nj]

Tell me about it

[@saint-miscreant]

Good job covering a very sensitive topic, Prof! I would however suggest doing a longer video when it comes to topics with this level of controversy and complication, to ensure you have time to give relevant context for people who aren't so familiar. Personally I wonder if the USA would still be so enthusiastic about protecting Israel's statehood if it (the US) didn't have so much vested in the balance of power in the Middle East... and if Iran wasn't a problem. I rather suspect not, especially given rising public awareness in the past few years about the repression campaigns and human rights violations Israel has carried out. I still find the original UN division insanely idiosyncratic and badly managed, but that's the way the cookie crumbles... in the end as always, it's the civilians on both sides that get shafted.

[@abdifatah8520]

Professor! You did a good analysis. Is difficult when it comes Palestine and Isreal

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks you so much. That means a lot to me. I really appreciate it. (And thank you so much for all your wonderful support!) It’s never an easy conflict to cover. But this is such an important aspect of the whole dynamic in the Middle East. Hopefully, I was able to explain it in a fair and balanced way.

[@zachscully]

30-32ish years after the U.S. had just fought a massive war, moved peace along with Israel-Palestine, elected a young president socially liberal but economically conservative, came out of a recession, the House went Republican populist insane, Colorado used its ‘states’ right’ to discriminate against gays (temporarily), now in 2024 we are on the verge of….

[@roddychristodoulou9111]

There is no doubt that the Jewish lobby in America is the most powerful of all other lobbies . This is the main reason we see strong America Israel ties . However I've always felt that America is using Israel to acheive it's foreign policy objectives . Especially now that Islamic terrorism is the main enemy of the west America needs Israel more than ever so it is my opinion this rift we see now is more shallower than we think . There are so things America could do to force Israels hand in a Middle East peace settlement but instead we see the opposite . I beleive this is done deliberately in order to keep stoking the fire .

[@sirsurnamethefirstofhisnam7986]

Alliances usually only make sense if there is enough benefit to outweigh the cost of having them. The obvious question here is what is the benefit to USA? Israel is more trouble than it’s worth and causes constant headaches for the Americans, cost billions to provide aid for even though it’s ostensibly a 1st world country and the vast majority of Americans have no cultural or historic roots to the Middle East or Judaism as a religion. What does America gain except lots of new enemies mostly in the Islamic world?

[@jahidulmawla677]

Israel is like a military base for USA

[@Konstantin2004]

The us has lots of other military bases in the region ​@@jahidulmawla677

[@zdvickery]

IMO the benefit was more obvious during the Cold War when much of the Middle East was USSR-aligned. I see this alliance gradually weakening as Israel becomes increasingly right-wing and disinterested in any kind of settlement for its occupied territories. It is already evident that the Israel relationship gives the USA very little and better relations with the Arab states would be way more valuable. Whenever the US president becomes a member of a younger generation, I expect this to accelerate.

[@MarkVrem]

1st world country might be a lot of smoke and mirrors thanks to U.S Aid. Strategically I think it is important. Because it sits in between Egypt, Turkey and Iran. The three historical power brokers in the area.

[@varunrajesh6516]

War with Iran feels constantly inevitable and only Israel would be willing to fight that war. The US doesn't want to be embroiled in a drawn-out conflicts there and Europe would protest due to their natural squeamishness over such a war.

[@insearchofnemo]

He said nothing new. Nothing will change.

[@DioXin]

That's not the point of the video

[@JamesKerLindsay]

I’m not sure what you would have wanted me to say!? But here’s your chance to tell people what you think I should have said. :-)

[@insearchofnemo]

@@JamesKerLindsay I follow you since your earlier posts and have learned from your videos. However, you did not analyze the impact of the occupation, the apartheid, the genocide, and the oppression of the Palestinian people. Did not mention the ICC, the ICJ being called. Palestinians suffer because of the west giving their land to the Jewish people. The status quo is not acceptable. This genocide will have a huge impact on international rule based order.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

@@insearchofnemo Thanks. But I didn’t cover all this because this was not a video about the Israel-Palestine conflict. It was a video about the relationship between Israel and the United States. My videos are short and have to cover a lot. I have looked at the Israel-Palestine situation in other videos (and recently made videos on the ICJ case, whether the West should recognise Palestine, and even whether Israel’s annexation of the West Bank makes statehood impossible). But this was another topic. Please try to understand that when dealing with extremely long and complex issues like this I cannot go over every detail in every video. It would just make them too long. And I would still have people telling me I missed out something!

[@beonfly1111]

🌟... "Anyone can easily understand why the present Israel, which in itself concentrates all the evils and abominations committed on earth by colonialism and Nazism, and which is just the extreme opposite of the kingdom of Peace and Justice to come for all the descendants of Adam, Noah and Abraham of the Eternal One, is reaching the limits of its imposture". ... "Amen" !

[@mastergun57]

Uss liberty

[@JamesKerLindsay]

I keep getting this, but I'm unsure why it seems such a significant issue in some quarters. It happened in 1967. The two countries agreed it was an accident. (And there's no reason to suspect otherwise. These tragedies happen in wars.) The main takeaway from that war was the US decision to strategically prioritise Israel. I'm really not sure why it is being raised. How does it change anything? I am really keen to know.

[@constantinvaldor3742]

​@JamesKerLindsay the reason to suspect otherwise was to draw US into the war obviously lol why else.

[@santiagoalcantara3806]

3:07 in violation of the league covenant article 22 Versailles treaty. There the unitary right of self determination is stablish. Because right are not negotiable the partitions is if fact ilegal because hinders the self determination right of palestians.

[@FlamingBasketballClub]

"If you aren't voting for me, you aren't black" Joe Biden 2020

[@rehmanishaak1503]

Why do you keep criminals als your alliance? Why do you continue backing Netanyahu ? He is not the only culprit ......

[@izzykhach]

Doesn't the US spend more in countries where they have boots on the ground?

[@patrickhenry6695]

Not troubled. All show

[@paramahansayogananda6719]

Hello Prof, amazing video as usual. As you said, America and Israel’s rocky relationship will only get worse from here on out.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks so much. It will indeed be interesting to see how it plays out.

[@jaymudd2817]

Qutb's mindless minions, they thought they were so Grand. And now their bones be dryin' out a layin' in the Sand.

[@historyking9984]

I think it would be great to do a video on the Palestinian leadership, and Palestinian relations with surrounding Muslim countries and their history . The West Bank and Gaza were under Egypt and Jordans control for years. Jordan to this day has a large Palestinian population.How was that time and how did it compare to with Israel now and affect their relationships to this day? I think any peace long term has to involve the surrounding countries as well as Israel and Palestine . Also there seems to be separate Palestinian leadership in Hamas in Gaza and the PLO in the West Bank. Also there’s the Palestinian Diaspora who don’t live in Gaza or the West Bank and have a different experience and leaders.I’d assume people living in all three areas would have differing views and opinions. Who represents the Palestinians in these areas and who could be a potential leader for peace or an obstacle to it. Like I’ve seen people compare the Palestinian movement to the anti apartheid movement and the civil rights movement but with those movements there were clear known leaders. Martin Luther King Jr., Ella Baker,Fannie Lou Hammer,A Philip Randolph,John Lewis, Dorothy Irene Height, Roy Wilkins and more for the civil rights movement. The anti apartheid movement had leaders like Nelson Mandela;Desmond Tutu, Vella Pillay, Ros Ainslie, Abdul Minty and Nanda Naidoo. I don’t really know of many Palestinian leadership in comparison. Also within the leadership is there there a Martin Luther King / Ghandi non violent protest type leader or movement because the more violent conflict between Israel and Palestinians gets in the news and more attention. I heard of one march to the border sometime but not sure if there was an actual focused movement . Sorry for all the questions.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you so much. Brilliant idea. This is a great topic. Let me see what I can do.

[@mhhd77]

All you need to do to find out about Zionisim and Israel is listen to Jonathan Pollard podcasts to go into the minds of Israelis

[@nut6043]

I really appreciate the balanced view that you present on this issue! Thanks for the video

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you so much.

[@m.streicher8286]

When I think about the amount of economic and political strife the US covered Israel from, I feel slightly irritated. It's not that America dealt with 73', for example, but that we did it for the worst people and reasons.

[@reynaldolopez9221]

Lets the american taxpayers start questioning the whereabouts of over 297 billions in aid to israel, and what those amount has bringuin to their well bings aswell as for their childrens.

[@thomassenbart]

Where do get such a figure from?

[@saintradebe4042]

Let the Lord keep President Biden safe and sound

[@vipulchakurkar3921]

Will the US afford to lose an alliance with Israel? Especially, when Russian siting nextdoor in Syria or China willing to operate strategic Israeli ports?

[@JamesKerLindsay]

I don’t think anyone is saying the US should break with Israel entirely. But it should start to make it clear that support cannot continue if Israel refuses to take the steps needed for peace, thereby undermining American relations with the rest of the world.

[@petercohen5563]

You ignore the ethnic cleansing that began at least in January 1948 and had expelled more than 300,000 Palestinians by May 15th.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

This is not a video about the Israel-Palestine issue. It is a video about the Israel-US relationship. I focus on the main aspects of that relationship.

[@GarrettMixing1]

God Loves EVERYONE. I HOPE EVERYONE builds a relationship with JESUS.

[@hisdadjames4876]

Two words suffice to explain much of what’s behind the special relationship……Goldman and Sachs.

[@thomassenbart]

Dumb comment

[@hisdadjames4876]

@@thomassenbart Its glib, I admit, but not imo dumb. Im generally pro Israel, but there is still little doubt in my mind that US policy is…and has been for 50+ years…heavily influenced by the very powerful US-Jewish lobby, financed and led by the banking community. If you do not believe that to be the case, I’d be pleased to learn your argument.

[@peaceleader7315]

Never trust any of personal ambitions and their oligopoly.. hmmmm.. I guess personal ambitions overwrite their logical sense.. hmmmm.. Israel 🇮🇱 as a universal language, must stand on its own... hmmmm.. If the tribes of Israel 🇮🇱 could understand this.. hmmmm ☹️.. I need my rear guard.. right now.

[@rashathor4878]

Please tell us about AIPAC and how it works

[@aussiviking604]

I'd say business as usual. Too much conflation about an endgame that's been in process for decades. Besides who wants to be on the "project canary" shit list! 🤔

[@quzunarqozi5171]

Make a video about Turkey please! There was recently an election there.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks. I have done a lot on Turkey. The results were very interesting, but they were only local elections and so while they suggest discontent with Erdogan, they don’t actually mean any immediate changes.

[@Halil.Ayhan1]

Hello Professor. You have handled a subject that needs to be addressed very well. In Europe, we watch with horror as a traumatized nation (the Jewish community) traumatizes another people (the Palestinian people). I predict that this situation will be the material for in-depth academic articles in the future. On the Israeli side, this extermination operation is seen as a victory. What is a victory in defeating a people you are asymmetrically strong against is debatable. Even if we accept it as a military victory, it is clearly a political defeat. Normalization with all Arab states is in deep freeze. It also seems to be rapidly losing world public support. It is also helping repressive regimes like Iran, which have lost their popular support, to become stronger and regain popular support. Israel has found a useful foreign policy tool and calls the slightest criticism "anti-Semitic rhetoric". It hurts the image of the United States more than Israel's own image. The positive image that the U.S. created in the Muslim world during the Cold War was eroded by the 2003 intervention in Iraq and gained momentum in the following years. The destruction of Gaza is the biggest blow to the U.S. image. How long can a boxer beat his opponent in the ring. when your opponent falls down, you can't keep hitting him. if you do, we will go backwards as humanity. It's a modern-day version of the medieval gladiatorial arena.