Observing the relationship between the United States and Israel reveals a notable shift: Israeli officials are moving from following American directives to asserting their independence. This shift shows that Israel now prioritizes its own interests, which may diverge from those of the United States.

This increased confidence in Israel is evident in its ability to challenge American decisions without fearing repercussions. Israel exerts growing influence over American power circles through lobbying groups.

In early May, President Joe Biden suspended the shipment of certain munitions to Israel. In response, Republican Representative Elise Stefanik visited Israel and harshly criticized Biden, accusing him of "submitting to Hamas." Other Republicans, like Senator Lindsey Graham, echoed her criticisms. House Speaker Mike Johnson threatened to invite Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to address Congress, with or without Biden's agreement.

What are the differences between Biden and Netanyahu? They agree on the need to respond to the Hamas attack on October 7, 2023, but differ on the scale of the response. They agree on striking Hamas and dismantling its military structure but differ on ways to minimize civilian casualties. The objectives of the war are also debated, with the United States and the Israeli military finding Netanyahu's goals vague and unrealistic. Lastly, the battle for Rafah remains a point of friction, with Netanyahu insisting on opening a corridor for Palestinian refugees to the Sinai.

So far, Biden's positions have not deterred Netanyahu from pursuing his actions. This places Biden in a delicate position, unable to withdraw support for Israel or allow Israel to act without constraint, especially with rising criticism within the Democratic Party and protest movements in the United States.

How has Israel, in two decades, managed to gain such support in the United States and Europe, and exert such influence on global politics? The answer might lie in the shift of American and Israeli societies to the right and the rise of a sense of military superiority.

A survey by Israeli Channel 12 in March showed that the majority of Israelis prefer a victory for Donald Trump in the next presidential election, with 44% supporting Trump versus 30% for Biden. Two studies by the Israeli Democracy Institute indicate that a majority of Israelis support their leaders' resistance to American policies concerning the Middle East.

When Netanyahu returned to power in 2009, 51% of Israelis viewed President Barack Obama positively. However, Netanyahu's constant attacks on Obama, particularly on the Iranian nuclear issue, reversed this trend. According to the Pew Research Center, Republican support for Israel has increased, while Democratic support has decreased.

In 2015, Netanyahu broke a taboo by aligning with Republicans and accepting an invitation from the House Speaker without Obama's approval. Today, Netanyahu feels he can repeat the same maneuver. But this time, Biden faces a difficult election, and his response to Netanyahu's challenge could be decisive.

Will Biden confront Netanyahu? Will Netanyahu separate from the United States? Between yes and no, Gaza remains the victim, and the Middle East continues to be mired in crises.