Former national security adviser Robert O’Brien, along with two U.S. ambassadors from the Trump administration, recently met with Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other officials from the country. The meeting, which included John Rakolta, former ambassador to the United Arab Emirates, and Ed McMullen, former ambassador to Switzerland, was reported by Reuters.
The timing of the meeting is significant as former President Donald Trump is considered the presumptive 2024 GOP presidential nominee, potentially challenging President Joe Biden’s reelection. O’Brien informed the Biden administration of the trip, as is customary for former senior officials.
The meeting comes at a time when U.S.-Israel relations are strained due to Biden’s decision to delay the delivery of heavy bombs to Israel and the potential suspension of other provisions if Israel escalates its actions in the Gaza city of Rafah. However, both countries recently united in condemning the International Criminal Court’s chief prosecutor’s attempt to seek arrest warrants for Israeli officials in connection with the Gaza war.
The Gaza conflict has been a point of contention for both leaders, with Trump criticizing Biden for allegedly abandoning a key ally, while Biden faces protests from pro-Palestinian groups. Netanyahu, facing criticism for his handling of the Gaza conflict, has vowed to destroy Hamas following a deadly rampage in southern Israel.
In addition to meeting with Netanyahu, the Trump administration advisers also held discussions with Israel’s opposition leader Yair Lapid and other officials. The outcome of these meetings could have significant implications for U.S.-Israel relations moving forward.