The recent crisis in the Middle East, specifically the conflict between Israel and Hamas, has brought to light the complex dynamics of international relations. US President Joe Biden's offer of support to Israel amidst the attacks by Hamas has raised questions about his previous financial support to entities known to maintain friendly ties with the Palestinian terrorist organization. These entities, including the Iranian Islamist regime and Venezuelan socialist dictator Nicolás Maduro, have benefited from eased sanctions under Biden's administration, which merits closer scrutiny.
Biden suggests that Hamas attacked Israel to prevent its efforts to normalize relations with Saudi Arabia, which could have led to a significant achievement for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. However, these efforts are now on hold after the deadly attack by Hamas. The attacks by Hamas have also disrupted a potential three-way deal between the US, Saudi Arabia, and Israel, which aimed to reshape geopolitics in the Middle East.
The conflict between Israel and Palestine is driven by a sense of "injustice" towards Palestinians, as expressed by Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas. This underlying injustice has been a longstanding issue in the region and has contributed to the ongoing tensions.
China's role in the Middle East crisis is also worth noting. China's refusal to condemn Hamas and its alleged connection to the terrorist organization have raised concerns. China's close alliance with Iran, which is believed to supply weapons to Hamas, and claims that Hamas military commander Mohammed Deif was trained in China, highlight China's involvement in the conflict. China's support for Hamas is driven by its socialist, left-wing ideology and its desire to oppose the United States.
Russia, on the other hand, is using the diversion of attention from Ukraine to its advantage in the wake of the Israel-Hamas war. While the US has been pressuring China to play a greater role in the Middle East crisis, Russia is not expected to produce any results in terms of a ceasefire or negotiations. Russia and China are seeking to turn the tables on the United States and criticize its role in escalating the conflict and using its veto power at the Security Council.
This crisis is causing a shift in the strategic focus of the US towards a region it has not wanted to be absorbed by. It highlights the power struggles and complexities of international relations in the Middle East.
The article from the New York Daily News titled 'Readers sound off on lobbyists' influence, funding CUNY, and Gaza' presents a collection of public opinions on various topics. One reader from White Rock, British Columbia, expresses concern about the influence of lobbyists on scientific research and the potential for research to be biased in favor of corporate interests. Another reader from New Rochelle, N.Y., supports Governor Hochul's decision to halt congestion pricing in New York City, arguing that it would unfairly burden businesses and segregate parts of the city. Several readers also comment on the funding of CUNY, with one reader calling for full funding of the colleges and highlighting the contributions of CUNY graduates to the city's workforce and economy. Lastly, a reader from Brooklyn expresses opposition to the use of tax dollars to support the conflict in Gaza and suggests putting it to a vote. The article includes various other opinions on different topics as well. [40ff837b]