platforms, and living rooms. To understand U.S. decisions in the Middle East, it’s important to look beyond press conferences and observe discussions happening internally. Breaking News often emerges from these private debates.
Aaron David Miller, a former U.S. negotiator on the Israeli-Palestinian peace process, shared his insights on President Donald Trump, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and the Gaza conflict in an exclusive interview. His perspective sheds light on the red lines no U.S. president dares cross with Israel.
Trump, Netanyahu, and the Evangelicals: Who Leads?
After eight months into his second term, Trump faces Israel’s longest-serving prime minister, Netanyahu. While Netanyahu has strong domestic support, Trump’s decisions are influenced heavily by momentary politics, financial interests, and personal whims. The relationship is largely transactional, which is a recurring theme in Trump News.
Miller on Trump Marginalizing Israel
Miller noted that Trump took unusual steps that altered the U.S.-Israel dynamic:
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In March, Trump directed U.S. negotiator Adam Bohrer to open dialogue with Hamas, without consulting Israel.
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He made agreements with the Houthis that bypassed Netanyahu’s objections, ensuring attacks on Israel were not a condition.
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Trump initiated talks with Iran publicly, a move Israel learned about after the fact.
Despite these actions, Netanyahu stayed within three critical red lines:
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Trump must not think Netanyahu is deceiving him.
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Netanyahu must not make Trump appear weak. The 12-day strikes on Iran allowed Trump to project strength without triggering broader conflict.
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Netanyahu must not obstruct Trump’s key goals, such as Israeli-Saudi normalization.
Strategic Disputes or Just Trump?
While Trump granted Israel Jerusalem and the Golan Heights, Miller explained that historically, U.S. presidents rarely confront Israeli leaders publicly. This is a recurring topic in U.S News. Political considerations, personal ties, and belief in Israel as a partner shape this cautious approach.
Washington’s Image in the Middle East
Since October 7, 2023, U.S. administrations supported Netanyahu in Gaza without facing significant consequences. Arab states, including Egypt, Jordan, and Abraham Accord countries, largely remained passive. Even after repeated Israeli violations of Syrian sovereignty, U.S.-mediated meetings continued. These dynamics are often highlighted in World.
Evangelical Influence and Public Opinion
Polls show a decline in Israel’s positive image among Americans, though overall support remains above 50%. Party divisions are stark: Republicans largely maintain a pro-Israel stance, while Democrats show internal splits.
Regional and Global Considerations
Miller emphasized three U.S. vital interests in the Middle East: combating terrorism, ensuring free oil flow, and preventing a nuclear-armed regional power, primarily Iran. Other issues, like Arab-Israeli peace, are secondary priorities.
Final Thoughts
Miller criticized the slogan “America First,” arguing it often leads to “America Alone,” weakening U.S. influence and ignoring allies’ needs. Trump’s policies exemplify this,
