WASHINGTON (AP) — Rahm Emanuel, a potential Democratic presidential candidate and a noted advocate for Israel, is set to criticize Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Tel Aviv, emphasizing that Israel’s relationship with the United States stands “at a crossroads.” Emanuel will express this sentiment in a speech at Tel Aviv University, urging for significant changes to maintain strong ties between the two nations.
Emanuel believes Israel’s ongoing military response to Hamas’ attack on Oct. 7, 2023, is “reckless,” particularly in its treatment of Palestinians, using food and medicine as military tools. He also addressed the debate over whether Israel’s actions constitute genocide, urging thoughtful discussion, factoring conflicts in other regions like Ukraine and Sudan.
Polling indicates a shift among Democrats, with 58% believing the U.S. offers “too much support” to Israel, up from 45% earlier in the year. Additionally, half of Democrats think Israel may be committing genocide against Palestinians amid ongoing conflict with Hamas.
Emanuel suggests implementing sanctions on Israelis who harm Palestinian civilians, along with businesses backing settlements deemed illegal by the international community. He proposes ceasing U.S. defense subsidies to Israel, advocating that Israel should purchase American arms under terms similar to other allies.
His criticisms extend to Netanyahu, attributing Israel’s current difficult position to poor decision-making encouraged by past American policies that offered unconditional support, leading Netanyahu to ignore U.S. concerns with perceived impunity.
Emanuel’s forthcoming speech, lacking precedent in its directness and location, could provoke a strong response from Netanyahu, who has previously criticized Emanuel sharply. In the midst of his own campaign for reelection, Netanyahu might leverage Emanuel’s critique to reinforce his leadership amidst international challenges.
While in Tel Aviv, Emanuel plans to sidestep meetings with Israeli politicians to avoid impacting upcoming elections. He will focus on visiting a hospital serving both Israelis and Palestinians and meeting with families affected by the Oct. 7 events. His speech marks an assertive strategy for engaging with the political issues surrounding Israel’s actions and American politics, given the growing youth dissent against Israel’s conflict approach.
As Netanyahu faces criticism for neglecting diplomatic avenues to end the conflict, Emanuel will state that Israel’s global support is diminishing, highlighting increasing exclusion from international collaborations, especially in scientific and cultural sectors.
Emanuel will cite Vice President JD Vance’s recent criticism, illustrating shifting perceptions in both U.S. political parties. Vance noted Trump’s unique sympathetic stance towards Israel amid global dissatisfaction.
Despite his stern critique, Emanuel will also recognize the impact of the Oct. 7 attacks, recalling the toll of nearly 1,200 lives lost and over 250 hostages taken. Acknowledging past peace negotiation setbacks, he argues that the future cannot be dominated by past grievances.
Emanuel criticizes the two-state solution as “discredited,” proposing a “23-state solution” involving Israel, Palestinians, and Arab League members in a comprehensive peace agreement. He challenges Arab nations to uphold Palestinian rights beyond rhetoric and accept historical Jewish ties to the land.
No significant Democrat has declared candidacy for the 2028 presidential race yet, but Emanuel’s actions indicate his political ambitions. With a rich career in public service, including roles as White House chief of staff, congressman, Chicago mayor, and ambassador, Emanuel has maintained visibility through policy advocacy, public appearances, and active online presence.
Peoples reported from New York.
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