Joe Biden’s relationship with Israel is exemplified by the famous Golda Meir anecdote. At an Israeli embassy Independence Day celebration in 2015, Biden recounted a moment from 1973 when Meir assured him that Israel had a secret weapon in their conflict with the Arabs because they had no place else to go. This story highlighted the deep bond between Biden and Israel.
In 2023, President Biden fulfilled his promise to support Israel by embracing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu after an attack by Hamas. He pledged unwavering support, stating that the United States would stand by Israel forever. However, during the subsequent war, tensions arose as the administration expressed concerns about the extent of Israel’s counterattack.
Throughout his political career, Biden has maintained a strong pro-Israel stance, identifying as a Zionist and emphasizing the importance of Israel as a safe haven for Jews. His personal history with Israel dates back to 1973, making him a unique figure in American politics.
As Biden exits the political stage, there are concerns about the future of U.S.-Israel relations, especially as anti-Israel sentiment grows among younger Americans and within the Democratic Party. Vice President Kamala Harris, a potential successor to Biden, has been more vocal in criticizing Israel’s actions, raising questions about the future of U.S. support for Israel.
Despite these uncertainties, Israeli politicians have acknowledged Biden’s long-standing support for their country. Former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett and left-wing former lawmaker Stav Shaffir both praised Biden for his unwavering commitment to Israel.