Foreign-policy scholar Aaron David Miller describes current relations between the United States and Israel, “It’s close — if not the worst — in the modern era.” Miller is far from over-exaggerating, as the relationship between President Barack Obama and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is marked by continuous disagreement and an apparent dislike for one another. It is no secret Netanyahu backed Republican nominee Mitt Romney in the 2012 presidential election over incumbent Obama. Adding fuel to the fire, Netanyahu recently committed a political faux-pas when he accepted an invitation from House Speaker John Boehner to speak before Congress without first clearing it with the White House. He delivered his address on Tuesday, and — despite the rocky relationship between the U.S. and Israel — spoke of nothing but deep regard for Obama and the U.S.
In his address, the prime minister thanked the U.S. and Obama for supporting Israel. “Israel is grateful for the support of America — of America’s people and of America’s presidents, from Harry Truman to Barack Obama,” he said. Of course, Netanyahu had a purpose for his speech. He seeks to receive the aid of the U.S. in preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons, as he opposes the nation’s current attempts to strike a nuclear deal. While Netanyahu’s attempt to convince listeners of a pleasant relationship seems dramatically ironic at best, the fact he tried is evidence of Israel’s desire to pacify U.S.-Israeli relations. Meanwhile, approximately 50 lawmakers did not attend Netanyahu’s address because of his opposition to the U.S. making a deal with Iran. Also absent from the audience was Obama, who refused to meet with Netanyahu, claiming it would be “too political” given the upcoming Israeli elections.
Frankly, the blatant disrespect shown to Netanyahu is embarrassing. America is a nation that prides itself on promoting peace, yet members of our own legislature boycotted an address given by the prime minister of an ally. What kind of message is sent when a government refuses to listen to a fellow diplomat? If it is true that the U.S. “will not allow Iran to obtain a nuclear weapon,” as U.N. Ambassador Samantha Power said, then why would lawmakers refuse audience to someone with the same desire? The boycotting occurred because of a belief the speech was disrespectful, yet the only ones showing disrespect were American legislators. As for Obama’s refusal to meet with Netanyahu, though understandable, an election should not interfere with talks about peace — especially peace in the long-time unstable Middle East. When “politics” get in the way of peace, America becomes a nation nothing short of hypocritical. The best way to achieve peace is to maintain good relations, including relations with Israel. In order to improve U.S.-Israel relations, it is imperative the two governments respect and listen to one another. Perhaps with respect, Obama and Netanyahu’s relationship can transform into one of the best in the modern era.
