Following retaliatory strikes on Iran, Israel has entered a new phase of escalation, marking a direct confrontation with Teheran. The intensifying situation not only risks further destabilizing the region, but also forces the U.S. to become increasingly involved—more than it should be. For instance, in the same month French President Emmanuel Macron called to halt offensive weapons deliveries to Israel, the Biden administration announced the deployment of 100 U.S. troops to operate the THAAD (Terminal High-Altitude Area Defense) system. While Macron’s proposal may carry more symbolic weight, given that France is only a small contributor to Israel’s arms arsenal, it provides an opportunity to rethink America’s traditional approach of unconditional military support for Israel. By adopting a more restrained U.S. foreign policy—especially through a reevaluation of military support—the U.S. has the opportunity to better align its alliances with its strategic interests and growing concern at home and abroad over Israel’s conduct in Gaza, Lebanon, and beyond.
