When Democrats and Republicans Agree on Foreign Policy, Violence Often Results |
Photograph by Nathaniel St. Clair
Before a multi-course dinner at the White House, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu presented President Donald Trump with a copy of a letter nominating him for a Nobel Peace Prize. “He is forging peace as we speak,” Netanyahu remarked to the TV cameras.
Earlier this year, Trump likewise praised Netanyahu “for pursuing the peace process.” He did not endorse him for an award, but he often compliments his “good friend” on his efforts to create a better world.
The affection both men apparently have for each other is rivaled only by the love Netanyahu demonstrated to former President Joe Biden during an address to a joint session of the US Congress “for his efforts” to broker a hostage deal. After nearly two years, hostages are still languishing in captivity.
Biden reportedly gave Netanyahu a signed photograph of himself. The inscription on it is said to have read “I love you, Bibi, even though I don’t agree with a damn thing you’ve said.”
As touching as this festival of manly mutual admiration appears to be, it is cynical and grotesque political theater. Behind the Trump and Biden playacting is a long bipartisan practice of frequently underwriting allies’ violent crimes against defenseless populations, all in violation of international humanitarian law. Providing diplomatic cover has been a common service for favorites ranging from the Somoza family in Nicaragua to the Shah of Iran.
The proxies’ religious........