The US Secretary of Defense, Lloyd Austin, is embarking on a visit to the Middle East this week, with planned stops in Bahrain, Qatar, and Israel. The focus of the visit to Israel is particularly noteworthy, as it comes at a critical juncture in the region’s geopolitical landscape.
According to reports in the New York Times, one of the primary objectives of Austin’s visit is to pressure Israel into establishing timetables for the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The Biden administration is reportedly pushing for an end to the major campaign in the Gaza Strip within a few weeks, including both the air and ground campaigns currently underway.
During his visit to Israel, Austin is expected to meet with Prime Minister Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Galant to seek specific answers on when and how Israel plans to transition to a more limited “surgical” phase of the conflict. This phase would involve targeted entries into populated areas by special forces for the elimination of Hamas members, the rescue of hostages, and the destruction of tunnels.
In addition to the discussions on Gaza, the visit is also anticipated to cover two other crucial issues. Firstly, the US and Israel will engage in dialogue regarding the planned military operation against the Houthis, a militant group in Yemen. Reports suggest that President Biden is close to ordering a military operation against the Houthis, with Austin potentially announcing the “Guardian of Prosperity” operation during his visit. The operation would involve an expanded naval defense force with the participation of Arab countries.
Furthermore, discussions are expected to center on the threat posed by Hezbollah to Israel’s northern border and potential diplomatic efforts to prevent another Israeli campaign against the terrorist organization. There are concerns in the United States that an escalation on the northern border could prompt Israel to launch an all-out military campaign against Hezbollah. As a result, diplomatic pressure and warnings against the use of Israeli force in the north are likely to be key topics of conversation.
Finally, the visit is also expected to broach the issue of the Gerald Ford planes, which are the first to be sent to the region to protect Israel against a possible attack by Hezbollah and Iran.
In light of the complex and sensitive nature of the discussions, Austin’s visit to Israel will be closely watched and could have significant implications for the region’s security and stability.