Trump might be bad news for Israel

If Donald Trump becomes president again – which seems likely – American policy towards Israel could see a dramatic shift. Since the war between Israel and Hamas started last October, Trump has repeatedly expressed his support for Israel. The head of the Republican Jewish Coalition claimed that Trump would grant Israel ‘a blank cheque’ to finish off Hamas. Trump also warned that if Hamas doesn’t release the hostages, they’ll ‘pay a big price’ if he becomes president.

Many Israelis, including those in government, assume that a Trump/Vance win would be beneficial for Israel. A closer look shows that it may not necessarily be so.

When the war against Hamas started, president Joe Biden sent considerable American forces to the region. When Iran struck in April, by firing hundreds of missiles and drones against Israel, American forces played a pivotal role in protecting Israel. American forces routinely intercept missiles launched by the Houthis too. Biden also oversaw the supply of massive, continuous shipments of weapons and vital equipment to Israel during the war, as well as a very generous aid package.