Los angeles: California's governor, Gavin Newsom, a prospective 2028 presidential candidate, has stirred controversy by labeling Israel as an apartheid state. He argued that the actions of Tel Aviv have compelled Washington to reconsider its enduring military support.
According to Anadolu Agency, Newsom made these remarks during a speech in Los Angeles on Tuesday, where he did not shy away from criticizing Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, commonly known as Bibi. Newsom referenced Netanyahu's legal troubles and the impending elections, noting, "The issue of Bibi is interesting, because he's got his own domestic issues. He's trying to stay out of jail. He's got an election coming up." Netanyahu's corruption cases, delayed due to Israel's prolonged military actions in Gaza, along with elections set for October, were highlighted as pivotal factors in the current political climate.
Newsom further commented on the internal pressures Netanyahu faces, stating, "He's potentially on the ropes. He's got folks, the hardline, that want to annex the West Bank." He cited Thomas Friedman, an influential New York Times columnist who has shifted from a broadly pro-Israel stance to a more critical view, as aligning with the apartheid state characterization.
When questioned about the prospect of Washington reassessing its military support for Israel, Newsom expressed his dismay, saying, "It breaks my heart, because the current leadership in Israel is walking us down that path where I don't think you have a choice about that consideration." Despite bipartisan backing, Israel has been the largest recipient of U.S. foreign aid since 1946. Recent polls suggest a shift in American public opinion, with more individuals, especially the youth, showing sympathy towards Palestinians rather than Israelis for the first time.
Addressing the notion of regime change in Iran, Newsom dismissed it, stating, "We're talking about regime change? For two years, they haven't even been able to solve the Hamas question in Israel." Newsom's remarks come amidst heightened tensions in the Middle East after a large-scale U.S. and Israeli attack on Iran last Saturday, resulting in nearly 900 casualties, including the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. In retaliation, Tehran has launched drone and missile strikes targeting Israel and Gulf nations that host U.S. assets.
In addition to his gubernatorial role in California, which boasts the world's fourth-largest economy, Newsom is known for his frequent criticism of Republican U.S. President Donald Trump. Many anticipate that Newsom will vie for the presidency as a Democrat in 2028.