In September 2016, while serving as a Knesset member and Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister's Office, I had a conversation with Prime Minister Netanyahu about the security assistance package Israel was poised to sign with the U.S. Despite having numerous reasons to oppose the package—including concerns over Israel's dependence on the U.S. for munitions supply—I was acutely aware that Obama might use his final months in office to criticize Israel at the UN Security Council.
Biden criticizing Israeli campaign in Gaza
"That's his pattern," I cautioned the Prime Minister. "Offer us financial support with one hand, and then slap us with the other." Indeed, Israel signed the package, and three months later, in December, the U.S. allowed the adoption of Security Council Resolution 2334, condemning Israeli settlements in the West Bank. Now, as the Biden administration enters its twilight months, there looms a renewed risk of another Security Council resolution—this time, potentially with U.S. backing—that calls for the establishment of a Palestinian state. While Biden has portrayed himself as a Zionist and generally supported Israel throughout the conflict, at a significant political cost, he undoubtedly harbors deep resentment toward the Israeli government and its leader.
He has already demonstrated a willingness to sanction an increasing number of Israeli citizens due to their alleged violence against Palestinians. This week, the administration vetoed a council resolution calling for a ceasefire in Gaza that did not demand the release of hostages. However, while the hostage issue is close to the president’s heart, so is the pursuit of a Palestinian state. Thus, we cannot dismiss the possibility that Biden, like Obama before him, might feel compelled to establish a political precedent at the UN.
Though the specifics remain unclear—whether the resolution will merely support the creation of a state or, more importantly, recognize Palestine as a UN member state—the implications could jeopardize our security. Over a decade ago, during my tenure as Israel's ambassador to the United States, I engaged in a discussion with the diplomatic staff about the pros and cons of Israel itself recognizing a Palestinian state—such recognition would impose on Ramallah the responsibility for any terrorist acts originating there. Conversely, any Israeli pursuit of the Palestinian state would be deemed a violation of its sovereignty.
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Similarly, a Security Council recognition of a Palestinian state today would empower it to declare any settlement and IDF base as violations of its sovereignty. Israel would face repeated legal challenges in international courts, leading to sanctions against our leaders and citizens.
In light of such looming threats, Israel must not remain passive. The incoming Trump administration could be encouraged to exert pressure on Japan, South Korea, and other council allies to oppose the resolution. It could strengthen the commitment of the incoming Senate Majority Leader, John Thune, to impose sanctions on any international court attempting to penalize Israel. The new administration might deter the Palestinian Authority by threatening to support an Israeli annexation policy.
Michael OrenPhoto: Alex KolomoiskyWhile Biden could potentially conclude his term as a great friend of Israel, we cannot rule out the possibility that others in his administration might be less forgiving. We must prepare for the worst in the Security Council and be poised to counteract with every diplomatic tool at our disposal.
- Michael Oren is a former Israeli ambassador to the United States