President Trump kicked off his second term by reversing Biden-era sanctions on right-wing Israelis, freezing Palestinian aid, and reaffirming steadfast support for Israel.
Key Facts:
• On Monday, Trump rescinded Biden’s sanctions targeting right-wing Israeli figures and groups.
• Aid to the Palestinians is paused for 90 days under a new executive order.
• Netanyahu congratulated Trump and thanked him for aiding in the release of Israeli hostages abducted on Oct. 7, 2023.
• Trump pledged to confront Iran and to maintain unconditional backing for Israel’s military needs.
The Rest of The Story
Trump’s day-one executive actions mark a return to the strong pro-Israel agenda of his first term.
He reversed sanctions that the Biden administration placed on nearly three dozen Israeli individuals and organizations, which two Americans challenged as unfair and based on flawed information.
Right-wing Israeli politicians see the repeal of these measures as a correction of past wrongs.
He also placed a temporary hold on U.S. foreign development assistance, citing the need to ensure aid aligns with American interests.
This immediately affects funds to the Palestinians, which Biden had restored after Trump’s initial cuts.
🇺🇸🇮🇱BREAKING: Donald Trump has officially removed all weapons shipment restrictions on Israel and signed an executive order ending all U.S. funding to UNRWA.
This is absolutely huge. pic.twitter.com/JGf9XTjH4t
— Vivid.🇮🇱 (@VividProwess) January 21, 2025
Meanwhile, Israeli leaders, including Prime Minister Netanyahu, welcomed Trump’s renewed commitment to their security and the effort to free the remaining hostages.
Commentary
This bold shift from the Trump administration shows unwavering support for Israel.
It corrects what many conservatives viewed as the previous administration’s weak stance, paving the way for a more decisive Middle East strategy.
By fully backing Israel and removing sanctions on right-wing groups, Trump is sending a clear message that the United States stands firmly with its long-time ally.
The Biden team’s tepid approach left Israel vulnerable, and this renewed backing is a welcome change.
The Bottom Line
Trump has wasted no time signaling that the U.S.-Israel relationship will be closer than ever.
READ NEXT: Enraged Republican Lawmakers Vow to Subpoena Everyone Receiving One of Biden’s Last Minute Pardons
His actions set the stage for a strong partnership and a decisive foreign policy agenda in the region.