Former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich addressed recent comments made by Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Fox News’ “The Ingraham Angle,” criticizing Blinken’s assertion that former President Donald Trump had “built on” the Biden administration’s strategy regarding Israel and Hamas. Following a historic peace agreement brokered by Trump between Israel and Hamas, just one day after the anniversary of the conflict that escalated on October 7, 2023, Gingrich contended that Blinken’s remarks were out of touch.
Kayleigh McEnany, guest hosting the program, read Blinken’s tweet, which sought to link Trump’s actions to the Biden administration’s foreign policy objectives. Gingrich responded critically, asserting that Blinken represents a demographic within the Democratic party that lacks a realistic comprehension of global affairs. “They were a disaster in Afghanistan. They were a disaster in Ukraine. They were a disaster in the Middle East,” Gingrich stated, indicating a pattern of incompetence he associates with the Biden administration’s foreign policy.
Blinken’s comments on social media suggested that Trump’s peace deal was an extension of a plan that was initially developed during Biden’s term, following extensive discussions with leaders from the region including Arab partners, Israel, and the Palestinian Authority. He emphasized the need for a comprehensive post-conflict plan for Gaza that would be managed by international partners and ultimately handed back to Palestinian control.
During the previous administration, support for Israel was substantial, with an estimated $12.5 billion in direct military aid provided over four years, according to the Council on Foreign Relations. The Biden administration has faced the challenge of balancing foreign policy commitments, including military and humanitarian aid to Ukraine amidst its ongoing conflict with Russia.
This exchange reveals the stark contrasts in foreign policy perspectives between the two administrations, particularly concerning the Middle East, and underscores the political tensions surrounding international diplomacy in the current climate. Gingrich’s remarks indicate a belief that the Biden administration’s approach has not effectively addressed pressing global issues, a stance he sees as symptomatic of broader Democratic Party challenges.