US-Israel alliance on collapse as CIA chief says no other ‘trusted allies’ than UK

In a striking declaration, CIA Director Bill Burns and MI6 chief Richard Moore recently stated, “We have no more trusted or esteemed allies.” This statement, made in a Financial Times op-ed, underscores a significant shift in US-Israel relations.

The U.S.-Israel relationship has historically been a cornerstone of American foreign policy, characterized by military support, diplomatic backing, and shared strategic interests. However, recent developments have put this close alliance to the test. The suspension of arms export licenses to Israel and growing domestic and international criticism of Israeli policies mark a notable shift in the relationship.

The arrival of Benjamin Netanyahu’s right-wing government in December 2022 marked the beginning of a period of tension between the U.S. and Israel. Netanyahu’s controversial judicial reforms, aimed at restructuring the Israeli judiciary, faced sharp criticism from the Biden administration. The U.S. expressed its displeasure through a rare diplomatic gesture, summoning Israel’s ambassador to the State Department. This move signaled a significant departure from the traditionally warm diplomatic relations between the two countries.

The ongoing conflict in Gaza has further strained U.S.-Israel relations. The October 2023 Hamas attack on Israel saw US President Biden publicly reaffirm his support for the country, including a substantial emergency military aid package. However, as the conflict persisted, the Biden administration faced increasing domestic and international pressure. Critics accused the administration of failing to address the rising civilian casualties in Gaza adequately. This criticism culminated in February 2024, when Biden condemned Israel’s actions as “over the top” and imposed new conditions on U.S. military aid.

The Biden administration’s decision to abstain from UN Security Council resolutions demanding a ceasefire and its subsequent criticisms of Israeli military actions exemplify the growing rift. The U.S. abstention allowed a resolution to pass, which led to Israeli backlash and a suspension of planned diplomatic meetings.

The strain in U.S.-Israel relations is not an isolated issue but part of a broader trend of shifting international alliances. Traditional partnerships are being tested as new global dynamics emerge. The rise of China as a global power, coupled with changing dynamics in the Middle East, has contributed to this evolution. The U.S. has sought to address these changes by forming new alliances and diversifying its diplomatic engagements, such as through the I2U2 forum with India, the UAE, and Israel.