The podcast discusses the divisions within the American left on the Israel-Palestine conflict, Joe Biden's challenges in navigating these differences, and the impact of recent conflicts on his reelection bid. It also explores the reflexively pro-Israel stance of Republicans and changing attitudes towards Israel.
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Quick takeaways
The Israel-Hamas war has revealed divisions within the Democratic Party regarding support for Israel, with younger Democrats challenging the traditional unconditional support for Israel and advocating for a ceasefire.
The generational difference in views on Israel contributes to the divide within the Democratic Party, as younger Americans question the reflexive support for Israel and prioritize the treatment of Palestinians and democratic rights in Gaza.
Deep dives
Divisions within the American left on Israel-Palestine conflict
Amidst the 50-day-long conflict between Israel and Hamas, divisions within the American left have emerged. While President Joe Biden's response remains consistent with past presidents' support for Israel, younger Democrats and critics of Israel have been more vocal in their disagreements. Many Democrats, including members of 'the squad,' have called for a ceasefire, breaking away from the traditional unconditional support for Israel. These Democrats face criticism from moderates and pro-Israel factions within the party, including groups like APEC and Democratic Majority for Israel. The divide highlights changing perspectives on Israel and Palestine within the Democratic Party.
The difference in generational views on Israel
A significant factor contributing to the divide within the Democratic Party is the generational difference in views on Israel. Younger Americans, who grew up seeing Israel as a powerful country with a strong military, question the reflexive support for Israel and its actions. Skepticism has increased post-Iraq as Americans question the billions spent on foreign aid, particularly in the Middle East. The younger Democratic base is less inclined to prioritize protecting Israel and more concerned about the treatment of Palestinians and the lack of democratic rights in Gaza. Joe Biden, as a representative of the older generation, struggles to navigate this divide.
Republican unity and support for Israel
In contrast to the divisions among Democrats, Republicans remain unified in their support for Israel. Most Republican candidates, including potential 2024 contenders like Ron DeSantis and Nikki Haley, promise unwavering support for Israel. Republicans criticize Biden's response to the conflict, claiming it reflects weakness and contrasting it with Trump's strong pro-Israel stance. The party perceives Israel as the good guys and sees support for Israel resonating with their pro-Zionist Christian base. Republicans are less likely to prioritize aid to Ukraine, instead emphasizing the importance of supporting Israel.
The Israel-Hamas war is dividing the previously united Democrats and uniting the recently fractured Republican party. Semafor’s David Weigel explains what that means going into 2024.
This episode was produced by Avishay Artsy and Isabel Angell, edited by Matt Collette, fact-checked by Laura Bullard with help from Siona Peterous, engineered by Patrick Boyd, and hosted by Sean Rameswaram.