Tensions between Israel and the USA: Defense Minister Gallant cancels visit to Washington

Amid growing tensions between Jerusalem and Washington, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant has abruptly canceled his planned trip to the U.S. capital. This move has raised concerns that the critical alignment between the two countries on Israel's response to Iran's recent rocket attack could be destabilized. The planned trip to Washington was considered crucial for discussions on Israel's planned retaliatory measures. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu instructed Gallant to postpone the trip until the Israeli government votes on the response to the Iranian attack and Netanyahu himself has had a telephone conversation with U.S. President Joe Biden. Only after this alignment should Gallant embark on his trip to Washington. Despite the cancellation of the meeting, where Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin would have been the host, the relationship between him and Gallant remains strong. Washington primarily relies on diplomatic options and opposes attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities or its oil sector. The U.S. government has continuously sought contacts with Israeli officials to influence a decision on the military response. Meanwhile, Israel is intensifying its operations in Lebanon to combat the Iran-backed Hezbollah. Prime Minister Netanyahu called on the Lebanese population to rise against Hezbollah to 'save the country from the brink of destruction and suffering.'