Recent comments by Israeli War Cabinet member Yoav Gallant opposing U.S. sanctions for alleged human rights violations by Israeli forces forced consideration about the nature of friendship and its role in international relations. Gallant argued that sanctions are not how "friends and partners" treat each other. But is a hands-off approach truly the best path forward for a complex relationship like the one between the United States and Israel?
While blind loyalty might be a defining characteristic of some friendships, strong international partnerships demand a more nuanced approach. Accountability, not punishment, should be the cornerstone of a healthy relationship between allies. This requires a willingness to call out problematic actions and work towards solutions that uphold shared values.
The Leahy Law, invoked by the U.S. Secretary of State in this case, exemplifies this principle. This law restricts military aid to units credibly implicated in human rights abuses. It is not, as Gallant suggests, a punitive measure aimed at undermining Israel. It is a mechanism to ensure that U.S. taxpayer dollars are not inadvertently supporting actions that contradict America's commitment to human rights.
Turning a blind eye to violations of the Leahy Law erodes trust, a vital foundation for any strong partnership. Friends, by definition, share a level of trust and respect that allows them to have difficult conversations. When agreements are broken, and violations go unchecked, that trust is fractured. Can a true friend disregard their promises and commitments without consequence? True friendship thrives on mutual respect and responsibility.
A friend who truly cares will challenge you to be better, even when it's hard. The Leahy Law serves as a reminder of this shared responsibility. It offers an opportunity for the U.S. and Israel to engage in a constructive dialogue about upholding human rights, a value that both nations claim to hold dear.
This approach stands in stark contrast to simply ignoring breaches of the Leahy Law. Condoning such actions sends a message that human rights concerns are secondary compared to maintaining the status quo. This not only undermines the Leahy Law but also potentially implicates the U.S. in human rights abuses by association.
History is littered with examples of alliances that fractured due to a lack of accountability. The U.S.-Israel relationship is too valuable to let that happen. By engaging in open dialogue about the Leahy Law and its implications, the U.S. and Israel can demonstrate the true strength of their partnership: a willingness to address difficult issues in a spirit of mutual respect and shared values.