Relationship between the United States and Israel has reached "a crossroads"

2026, July 8

Israel

Rahm Emanuel is expected to deliver a major speech in Tel Aviv warning that the relationship between the United States and Israel has reached "a crossroads" and "cannot survive as it has been" unless there are significant changes in Israeli policy.

According to draft remarks reported ahead of the speech, Emanuel plans to:

Argue that Israel has become increasingly isolated internationally under Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Say that the current U.S.-Israel relationship is "not sustainable" without a new approach.

Criticize Israel's conduct in Gaza and the West Bank while also condemning the corruption of the Palestinian leadership.

Challenge the long-standing assumption of unconditional U.S. political support for Israel.

The speech is especially noteworthy because Emanuel has long been regarded as a strong supporter of Israel. He served as chief of staff to President Barack Obama and later as U.S. ambassador to Japan, and is widely viewed as a potential Democratic candidate for the 2028 U.S. presidential election. His criticism therefore reflects broader shifts within the Democratic Party, where concerns over Israel's military campaign and U.S. support have become increasingly pronounced.

Emanuel is expected to argue that preserving the U.S.-Israel alliance requires policy changes rather than abandoning the relationship. He reportedly intends to advocate measures such as stronger accountability for violence by Israeli settlers, changes to aspects of U.S. military support, and renewed efforts toward a broader regional peace framework.