In brief
In Israel, excitement meets skepticism as the leaders and citizens contemplate the implications of Trump's return to power amidst ongoing conflicts.
The bar at the US consulate in Jerusalem aptly named "Deja Bu," reminds the patrons of familiar past experiences, as Israelis gear up for a potential second term of Donald Trump. "I am quite pleased," shared Rabbi Rafael Shore, a resident of Jerusalem's Old City. He believes Trump grasps the complexities of Middle Eastern diplomacy, suggesting that Trump’s leadership would deter Iran from aggressive actions towards Israel and the US. Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was quick to extend congratulations to Trump, referencing his previous tenure as “the best friend Israel has ever had in the White House.” Support for Trump’s 2016 presidency remains strong in Israel, bolstered by his withdrawal from the Iran nuclear deal, the establishment of normalization agreements with Arab nations, and recognizing Jerusalem as Israel’s capital.Michael Oren, a former Israeli ambassador to the US, labeled Trump’s policies as commendable for Israel. However, the landscape is complex. While some anticipate Trump to replicate his prior policies, Oren cautioned against overlooking Trump’s avoidance of lengthy military engagements and his ambivalence towards settlement expansion, which could clash with Netanyahu's most right-wing coalition partners, who may resist political compromises.Amid the pressing war in Gaza, some residents express a desperate hope for Trump’s influence to encourage peace. Individuals like Ahmed, who lost family in the conflict, cited Trump’s strength as crucial in alleviating their plight. In stark contrast, Gazan residents revealed the dire humanitarian crisis, with many longing for any strong leader who could facilitate an end to their suffering and facilitate a distinction between Palestinians and Israelis.Palestinian Authority members showcased skepticism about US intentions, regardless of Trump's presidency, emphasizing that previous US administrations often favored Israel over Palestinian concerns. They desire not just a continuation of Trump's policies but a transformative approach addressing the underlying issues fueling conflict.While a significant percentage of the Israeli populace desires Trump's return, there are mixed feelings about the unpredictability that his presidency may entail. One Israeli woman remarked on her fears that Trump might exacerbate the ongoing violence rather than foster peace.Oren expressed optimism, foreseeing potential achievements such as a historic peace accord with Saudi Arabia, though he acknowledged that navigating Trump's demands could challenge Netanyahu. The landscape in Israel could evolve significantly, reflecting the intricate web of alliances, grievances, and the hope for resolution in a longstanding conflict, reminding us that past actions do not predict future outcomes.
