Former U.S. President Barack Obama voiced deep concerns about Israel's approach towards Gaza, warning that their military strategy, particularly cutting off food, water, and electricity, risks alienating global support and "could ultimately backfire."
In statements released to the media and a detailed post on Medium, Obama recognized Israel's right to defend itself, especially in light of Hamas's attack that left over 1,400 Israelis dead. However, he emphasized the broader implications of their current tactics. "The Israeli government's decision to cut off food, water and electricity to a captive civilian population threatens not only to worsen a growing humanitarian crisis; it could further harden Palestinian attitudes for generations, erode global support for Israel, play into the hands of Israel's enemies, and undermine long-term efforts to achieve peace and stability in the region," Obama said.
Though the former president condemned Hamas's attack, he highlighted the human costs of the war, noting that "thousands of Palestinians have been killed in the bombing of Gaza, many of them children. Hundreds of thousands have been forced from their homes."
Obama's perspective on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict has consistently shifted between support for Israel's defense and concern over Palestinian casualties. During his presidency, he often advocated for Israel's right to self-defense at the outset of conflicts with Hamas in Gaza. However, as civilian casualties rose, he routinely urged Israeli restraint.
The relationship between Obama and Israeli leadership, particularly with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, was notably tense, especially during nuclear deal negotiations with Iran. Then-Vice President Joe Biden, who served alongside Obama, often found himself mediating between the two leaders.
While the context of Obama's recent statements regarding Biden's administration is not fully clear, Obama did express support for Biden's call for the U.S. to aid Israel in dismantling Hamas's military capabilities.
On the other hand, White House National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby conveyed the current U.S. administration's position, revealing that they are asking Israel "tough questions" about their strategies and intentions. Kirby said, "We have, since the beginning of the conflict in the early hours, maintained a level of communication with our Israeli counterparts to ascertain their intentions, their strategy, their aims."
The Gaza Strip, home to 2.3 million people, has been politically controlled by Hamas since 2007. Israel has imposed a blockade on the region, which has seen repeated cycles of conflict over the years. Peace talks have been attempted various times, including during Obama's administration, but a lasting resolution has remained elusive.
The international community continues to watch closely as the situation unfolds, with many hoping for a peaceful resolution that protects the rights and lives of civilians on both sides.
