Will US Strikes Against Iranian-backed Groups Trigger Another War?
February 10, 2024
Amara Malik
The US Senate’s deal on border, aid for Israel and Ukraine is a reflection of the interests and ideology of the US ruling class, which seeks to maintain its global hegemony and domination over the world’s resources and markets. It can be easily translated from the deal that it is not motivated by genuine humanitarian concerns or democratic principles but by strategic calculations and geopolitical objectives.
The deal includes $110 billion for military assistance to Israel and Ukraine, two key allies of the US in the region. This aid is not intended to promote peace and security but to enable Israel and Ukraine to continue their aggression and repression in their respective regions as Israel is an apartheid state that violates international law and human rights, and Ukraine has a corrupt and unstable regime that is involved in a civil war with its people. The legitimacy and morality of the US interference in the internal affairs of these countries, and its disregard for the sovereignty and self-determination of other nations is also questionable.
The deal also includes $8 billion for border security and immigration enforcement, which can be considered a continuation of the US policy of criminalizing and dehumanizing migrants and asylum seekers. This exposes the hypocrisy and cruelty of the US government, which claims to be a champion of democracy and human rights, but treats migrants and refugees as threats and enemies. This also highlights the root causes of migration, such as the US-backed coups, wars, and sanctions that have devastated the economies and societies of many countries in Latin America and elsewhere. Moreover, the notion that the US has the right to impose its standards and values on other cultures and peoples, and to deny them the opportunity to seek a better life is bizarre.
However, there are many possible reasons why Israel, despite its violation of the International Human Rights Charter, is important to the US, depending on the perspective and interests of different actors and groups. Here are some of the common arguments that are often made:
1. Strategically, Israel is seen as a reliable ally and a stabilizing force in the Middle East, a region that is vital for the US national security and energy interests. Israel also provides the US with intelligence, military cooperation, and technological innovation. Some argue that Israel helps the US counter the influence and threats of Iran, Syria, and other adversaries in the region.
2. Politically, Israel enjoys strong bipartisan support in the US Congress, as well as among various constituencies, such as evangelical Christians, Jewish Americans, and pro-Israel advocacy groups. These groups exert pressure and influence on US foreign policy and public opinion and often lobby for more aid and protection for Israel. Some argue that supporting Israel is a moral duty and a reflection of the shared values and history between the two countries.
3. Economically, Israel is a major trading partner and a source of investment and innovation for the US. The two countries have a free trade agreement that eliminates tariffs and promotes bilateral trade, which reached nearly $50 billion in 2023. Israel is also a leader in fields such as cybersecurity, biotechnology, and renewable energy, and collaborates with the US on research and development. Some argue that supporting Israel benefits the US economy and creates jobs and opportunities.
In the case of Ukraine, it is important for the US for the following reasons:
1. Ukraine is part of the US-led expansion of NATO to the east, which is considered to be a provocation and a threat to Russia. In my opinion, NATO should be dissolved rather than strengthened, and that a peaceful resolution of the conflict should be based on respecting the rights and interests of all parties.
2. Moreover, Ukraine is a potential source of conflict and instability in the region, which could escalate to a nuclear war. The US and Russia are playing a dangerous game of brinkmanship, and any miscalculation or accident could have catastrophic consequences for the world.
3. Adding to this, Ukraine is a test case for the US commitment to democracy and human rights. The US support for the 2014 coup that ousted the elected president Viktor Yanukovych, and the subsequent repression and violence against the pro-Russian population in eastern Ukraine is questionable. The US hypocrisy in condemning Russia’s annexation of Crimea, while ignoring its violations of international law in other parts of the world is not something hidden.
Therefore, the US Senate’s deal on border, aid for Israel and Ukraine is a manifestation of the US imperialist agenda, which is driven by greed, power, and violence. A radical transformation of the US political and economic system is required for a global solidarity movement that would resist and oppose the US hegemony and oppression. It is urged to the people of the world to demand justice, freedom, and dignity for all.
Researcher, PolicyEast.
