U.S. Diplomatic Successes and Setbacks in Middle East Relations

The Israeli military is preparing for a ground invasion of the Gaza Strip, aiming to wipe out Hamas and potentially capture Gaza City. The United States has ordered a second aircraft carrier strike group to the eastern Mediterranean to deter Iran or Hezbollah from joining the conflict. The humanitarian situation in Gaza is dire, with hospitals running low on supplies and thousands at risk of dying. The U.S. has been unsuccessful in its efforts to evacuate American citizens from Gaza due to Egypt's refusal to allow aid to pass through the border. Polls show that a majority of Americans sympathize with Israel, and President Biden has urged both Israeli and Palestinian leaders to allow humanitarian aid and protect civilians. In the domestic sphere, Republican presidential hopefuls have criticized former President Trump's comments about the Middle East, while Nikki Haley positions herself as a staunch Israel supporter. FBI Director Christopher Wray warns of an increase in domestic threats related to the Middle East conflict, including antisemitism.