Warnings from Middle East Posts
The State Department has been alerted by its posts in the Middle East about the repercussions of U.S. messaging on the conflict in Gaza. Recent intelligence reports have triggered a meeting in Washington to assess the situation.
Impact on U.S. Standing
Reports indicate that the U.S. support for Israel after Hamas’ attack has been perceived negatively in the region. Despite efforts to emphasize civilian protection, criticism of the U.S. position remains strong.
Concerns in Muslim-Majority Countries
Diplomats in other Middle Eastern and Muslim-majority countries like Indonesia have also expressed reservations about the U.S. stance. The enduring hit to U.S. popularity could have far-reaching implications for American diplomacy and business interests in the region.
White House Response
The White House has initiated efforts to address the backlash domestically and internationally. Senior aides have been deployed to engage with communities, while the administration has started softening its support for Israel’s campaign, emphasizing the suffering of Palestinian civilians.
Rebuilding U.S. Standing
Despite concerns over the lasting impact, some officials believe it may take a generation to rebuild U.S. standing in certain countries. The State Department has had to cancel outreach events and faced refusals of awards due to its response to the Gaza conflict.