The Tragic Cost of Dithering: The Consequences of Criticizing Israel Instead of Joining the Fight
Introduction
In March, President Biden made a statement, warning that if Israel invaded Rafah, the last major Hamas stronghold in southern Gaza, it would cross a “red line” that threatened US aid. Vice President Kamala Harris echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that any major military operation in Rafah would be a huge mistake. However, the recent events have revealed the tragic cost of the Harris-Biden administration’s dithering.
The Tragedy Unfolds
Six hostages, including one Israeli-American, lost their lives as a result of the failure to act decisively. While the families of the deceased understandably blame Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for the lack of a cease-fire, it is important to recognize that Hamas consistently demonstrated its unwillingness to negotiate in good faith. The terrorists demanded unrealistic terms, effectively holding the hostages hostage until Israel capitulated, withdrew from Gaza, and allowed Hamas to retain power.
Criticizing Israel Instead of Joining the Fight
The true “huge mistake” lies not in Israel’s refusal to surrender to Hamas’s demands but in the US administration’s decision to criticize Israel rather than actively supporting its fight against terrorism. The Biden-Harris administration had the opportunity to send a strong message to Iran, Hamas’s sponsor, demanding the release of the hostages or face severe consequences both financially and militarily. They could have also made it clear to Hamas that if they did not release the hostages, the US would support Israel in rooting out the terrorist organization and pressure Qatar to stop sheltering its leader.
The Missed Opportunity
At the very least, the administration could have granted Israel the freedom to attempt a rescue operation. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have demonstrated their capabilities in past hostage situations, such as the successful rescue of Noa Argamani and three others from Nuseirat in June. The fact that the bodies of the deceased hostages were found in Rafah confirms Israel’s assertion that Hamas callously hid hostages among innocent Gazan civilians, hoping that global protests and hesitancy from governments would prevent Israel from taking action.
Appeasing Anti-Israel Sentiment
Regrettably, Harris and Biden played into Hamas’s strategy by threatening Israel in an attempt to appease the anti-Israel faction within the Democratic Party. They prioritized electoral votes from Michigan over doing what was right. This misguided approach not only undermined Israel’s position but also emboldened Hamas to continue its nefarious activities.
The Way Forward
While the exact number of remaining hostages in Gaza is unknown, Hamas’s refusal to provide any information highlights their evil nature. Moving forward, it is crucial to establish clear “red lines” for Iran and Hamas. They must release any remaining hostages or face the full wrath of the United States. It is imperative for the Biden-Harris administration to take a stronger stance against terrorism and support Israel in its fight for security and the protection of innocent lives.
