Trump's election victory is seen as a pivotal moment that could either exacerbate tensions or lead to new diplomatic efforts in the Middle East.
The contrasting expectations from Israeli leaders reflect the complexity of regional politics, where Trump's unpredictability may challenge Netanyahu's strategies.
The potential for renewed peace efforts, such as the Abraham Accords, hinges on how Trump balances his pro-Israel stance with the need for regional stability.
Trump's administration may prioritize military support for Israel while also attempting to negotiate peace agreements with Arab states, potentially revitalizing the Abraham Accords.
Netanyahu may face pressure to act decisively in the region before Trump's inauguration, particularly regarding military operations against Hamas and Hezbollah.
The Biden administration's final actions could influence the early days of Trump's presidency, potentially setting the tone for US-Israel relations moving forward.
Donald Trump's recent election victory is poised to significantly reshape the dynamics of the Middle East, raising both hopes and concerns among regional leaders. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu anticipates increased support for his hardline policies against Hamas in Gaza, Hezbollah in Lebanon, and Iran, while Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas expresses optimism about potential cooperation with the new administration. Trump's unpredictability, however, may introduce new risks to the region's stability.
During his campaign, Trump claimed he could resolve conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon, yet his statements have been contradictory, suggesting both support for Israel's military actions and calls for de-escalation before he assumes office in January. Analysts indicate that Trump's primary concern is maintaining media attention, which may influence his approach to the ongoing conflicts.
In his previous term, Trump positioned himself as a staunch ally of Israel, making significant policy shifts that angered Palestinians, such as relocating the US embassy to Jerusalem and recognizing the Golan Heights as Israeli territory. Expectations among Israelis vary, with some believing Trump will grant Israel greater freedom in military actions, while others hope he will not be easily swayed by Netanyahu's ultra-religious coalition partners.
Trump's previous withdrawal from the Iran nuclear deal and his aggressive stance towards Tehran suggest he will continue a hardline approach. However, the current geopolitical landscape may limit his ability to rally Arab Gulf states to support an anti-Iran strategy, complicating his plans for the region. Netanyahu's initial discussions with Trump post-election focused on the Iranian threat, indicating a shared concern.
As the Biden administration prepares for a transition, there is speculation about potential last-minute diplomatic efforts to stabilize the region, including pressure on Israel regarding its military actions in Gaza. Analysts suggest that Biden's final months in office could see heightened urgency to broker peace agreements before Trump takes office.
