American diplomats in the Arab world have reportedly issued stark warnings to the Biden administration, expressing concern that the strong support for Israel’s military campaign in Gaza is causing lasting damage to the relationship with Arab nations.
A diplomatic cable obtained by CNN reveals sentiments of losing Arab public support for a generation due to perceived US backing of Israel’s actions, which some view as potential war crimes.
The cable emphasizes the urgent need for a more effective messaging strategy to address growing anti-US sentiment in the region.
The cable, originating from the US Embassy in Oman, highlights the alarming feedback from various contacts, indicating a loss in the “messaging battlespace.”
The document, authored by the second-highest-ranking US official in Muscat, was distributed to key entities including the White House’s National Security Council, the CIA, and the FBI. While it represents a snapshot of concerns from a specific region, it reflects broader anxieties within the US government about the escalating anti-US sentiment in the Middle East.
One cable from the American embassy in Cairo relayed criticism from a state-run Egyptian newspaper, stating that “President Biden’s cruelty and disregard for Palestinians exceeded all previous US presidents.”
This discontent comes amid a backdrop of pressure on President Biden both domestically and internationally over the US’s stance on Israel, particularly in the face of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Despite resistance to calls for a ceasefire, the Biden administration has sought to increase aid to Gaza and advocated for humanitarian pauses to facilitate assistance and protect civilians.
As Arab allies express deep anger over the situation, the diplomatic cables underscore the complexity of managing regional relationships amid heightened tensions.
