As the 2024 U.S. presidential race nears its conclusion, former President Donald Trump has made moves that indicate his ongoing commitment to the pro-Israel stance that has long been a fixture of American politics. However, his recent statements and high-level appointments suggest that his foreign policy may be even more aligned with the far-right aspirations of Israeli ultranationalists than ever before.
During a visit to Dearborn, Michigan, a hub for Arab American communities, Trump addressed Arab American and Muslim voters, many of whom were angered by the United States’ unwavering support for Israel in its wars in Gaza and Lebanon. He spoke to Lebanese Americans in particular, expressing sympathy for their plight and vowing to restore peace to the Middle East. In a post on social media, Trump promised, “During my Administration, we had peace in the Middle East, and we will have peace again very soon!” He also blamed the current administration for the region’s turmoil, pledging to end the suffering in Lebanon and bring about a lasting peace in the region.
However, after securing a decisive victory at the polls, Trump is assembling a team of some of the most ardent pro-Israel figures within the Republican Party. His choices for key administration roles suggest that, despite rhetoric aimed at appeasing Arab American voters, his administration’s stance on Israel will remain staunchly supportive — with little to no room for a shift in policy. Several of his nominees not only back continued U.S. military and diplomatic aid for Israel but also align with the goals of Israeli ultranationalists, particularly the expansion of illegal settlements in Palestinian territories.
As the war in Gaza rages on, with more than 43,000 civilians killed since the conflict escalated in October 2023, Israel’s tactics in the region have drawn international condemnation. A United Nations special committee has described Israel’s actions as being “consistent with genocide.” Amid this backdrop, Trump’s choices for foreign policy and military leadership signal a strong, unflinching support for Israeli actions.
Trump’s Key Picks and Their Views on the Middle East Conflict
Here’s a look at some of Trump’s high-profile nominees and their stance on the Middle East crisis:
Marco Rubio – Nominee for Secretary of State Florida Senator Marco Rubio, known for his hawkish foreign policy views, has long been a vocal supporter of Israel. His strong stance was evident in his 2016 presidential campaign, where he criticized Trump for his less hawkish approach. Rubio argued that the Palestinians, particularly through groups like Hamas, were not legitimate peace partners, accusing them of inciting violence against Israel. In the wake of the October 2023 Hamas attacks, Rubio called for an all-out military response, advocating for the complete eradication of Hamas, labeling them “sadistic savages.”
Pete Hegseth – Nominee for Secretary of Defense Fox News host and U.S. Army veteran Pete Hegseth, nominated for Secretary of Defense, is another staunch proponent of Israeli policies. Hegseth has repeatedly emphasized the existential threat to Israel, calling for a public discussion of Israel’s importance and pushing back against anti-Semitism. In a 2018 speech in Jerusalem, Hegseth endorsed Israeli ultranationalist views, including the controversial idea of demolishing the Al-Aqsa Mosque to make room for a “Third Temple.” His comments align with the far-right agenda of expanding Israel’s presence in the West Bank and East Jerusalem, positions that are deeply divisive in the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Marco Rubio’s Advocacy and Criticisms Rubio’s unwavering support for Israel has not been limited to rhetoric. He has consistently advocated for Israeli military actions, even in the face of mounting civilian casualties. His 2023 remarks regarding the ongoing Gaza conflict underscore his belief that there is no diplomatic solution, only military force. In the face of criticism from antiwar groups, Rubio has remained resolute in his stance, urging for the complete elimination of Hamas, regardless of the humanitarian costs.
Trump’s picks for key positions, such as Rubio and Hegseth, suggest that his administration will continue to prioritize a staunchly pro-Israel agenda. As the U.S. watches the ongoing violence in Gaza, these appointments indicate that there will be little appetite for diplomatic efforts to broker peace, with support for Israeli actions — including controversial settlement expansions — likely to remain a central tenet of U.S. foreign policy under Trump’s leadership.