The US has long been accused of taking Israel’s side on divisive issues – a claim that was repeated yesterday after Washington officials blocked a UN condemnation of Israel’s demolition of Palestinian homes. President Trump has consistently praised his counterpart since entering the White House, labelling him a “great ally”. However, an Israeli expert has suggested his closeness with Mr Netanyahu is doing more harm than good to Israel’s overall ambitions.
Professor Yossi Mekelberg, a Senior Consulting Research Fellow at Chatham House, told Express.co.uk that should President Trump continue to appease his opposite number, Israel would suffer diplomatically.
He said: “Donald Trump is a friend of Israel?
“I think, actually, it’s the complete opposite.
“With friends like Trump, I don’t think you need enemies.”
Despite Washington’s historically close relations with Israel, the White House has always been there to check any irresponsible moves regarding illegal settlements or the use of excessive military force.
Under President Trump, this has changed significantly, according to Mr Mekelburg.
The Regent’s University professor added: “In fact, previous administrations have restrained Israel on many occasions, such as settlements or involvement in Gaza.
“That has allowed Israel to operate fairly freely and carry out their goals, but with the necessary restraint.
“With Trump, you have a President that is pushing Israel to do the things that, in my opinion, will damage their long term interests.”
Although former president Barack Obama wasn’t afraid to criticise Mr Netanyahu on numerous occasions, relations thawed quickly after President Trump was inaugurated.
His recognition of Jerusalem as the capital of Israel was a controversial move that drew ire from nations worldwide.
Senior adviser Jared Kushner’s so-called ‘Deal of the Century’ has also been met by heavy resistance from Palestinians, who see the agreement as biased towards Israel.
Mr Mekelburg suggested that if the current trajectory continues, there will never be a political solution between Israel and Palestine.
He said: “The Knesset have such freedom now, and their ideas are devoid of reality.
“It shows the ignorance of the current administration in Washington.
“At the moment, the United States is not good for the world, and not good for Israel.”
Yesterday President Trump congratulated his ally on becoming the longest-serving prime minister in Israeli history.
He said: “Under your leadership, Israel has become a technology powerhouse and a world-class economy.
“Most importantly you have led Israel with a commitment to the values of democracy, freedom, and equal opportunity that both our nations cherish and share!”