Despite Iran's direct attack on Israel with hundreds of ballistic missiles, Secretary of State Antony Blinken has remained silent, even as he touted the Biden administration's foreign policy record in a recent op-ed.
In a brazen act of aggression, Iran launched nearly 200 ballistic missiles towards Israel on Tuesday evening, marking a "significant escalation" in tensions between the two nations. The indiscriminate rocket fire was in response to Israel's assassination of Hezbollah's senior leadership, including long-time leader Hassan Nasrallah.
Hours before the attack, Secretary of State Antony Blinken published an op-ed extolling the Biden-Harris administration's foreign policy record, claiming it has strengthened America's interests abroad. However, Blinken's op-ed made no mention of the escalating tensions with Iran or the imminent threat to Israel.
Biden Quiet as Iran Bombards Israel with Missiles
"The Biden administration’s strategy has put the United States in a much stronger geopolitical position today than it was four years ago," Blinken wrote.
He emphasized the importance of international cooperation and avoiding isolationist decision-making. "The United States cannot go it alone," Blinken asserted. "If America wants to protect its security and create opportunities for its people, it must stand with those who have a stake in a free, open, secure, and prosperous world."
Biden Quiet as Iran Bombards Israel with Missiles
Blinken also discussed the conflict in Gaza, stating that it is interconnected to Iran's behavior. However, he did not offer any concrete solutions or acknowledge the potential for further escalation between Israel and Iran.
In his op-ed, Blinken also claimed that the Biden administration's diplomacy has helped revitalize partnerships abroad and reinforce America's competitiveness. Yet, critics argue that the administration's perceived weakness and appeasement of Iran have emboldened its adversaries.
Biden Quiet as Iran Bombards Israel with Missiles
House Republicans have been particularly vocal in their criticism of the Biden-Harris foreign policy, describing it as a "failure" and accusing the administration of prioritizing appeasement over national security.
"Our adversaries are carrying out increasingly dangerous attacks because of Biden and Harris' weak and failed foreign policy," a joint statement from Republican leaders declared.
Biden Quiet as Iran Bombards Israel with Missiles
As the situation in the Middle East intensifies, the Biden administration has remained relatively quiet, with no public statements issued from the White House or Secretary of State. This lack of response has raised concerns among analysts and observers about the administration's commitment to Israel's security and its ability to effectively address the growing threat from Iran.
In a statement released by Iranian state media, Iran's Revolutionary Guard warned Israel that any response to the missile attacks would result in "crushing attacks." The escalation of hostilities has sparked fears of a wider conflict in the region and has drawn international condemnation.
While the Biden administration has emphasized the importance of diplomacy, it remains to be seen whether its actions will match its rhetoric. Israel has the right to defend itself from aggression, and the United States has a moral obligation to support its ally in this hour of need. The administration must act swiftly and decisively to de-escalate the crisis and prevent further bloodshed.
