US Secretary of State to conclude Israel trip – Photo: Associated Press

US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken’s trip to Israel concludes today.

The stop in Israel is part of a wider regional diplomatic engagement that includes a visit to Egypt. Blinken met with leaders of Israel’s new government, including Benjamin Netanyahu, as well as with leaders of the Palestinian Authority in Ramallah. Discussions focused on continuing instability the region and the impact of the Russian invasion of Ukraine on the area, particular the calls for Israel to provide military equipment to Ukraine.

The trip comes at a heightened period of tension in Israel. Netanyahu’s government was formed by making significant concessions to far-right parties. The government is also seeking ways to diminish the power of the independent judiciary. Concurrently, numerous security operations have been conducted by the Israeli military in the West Bank, and more recently a Palestinian killed seven people in an East Jerusalem synagogue.

The domestic Israeli political landscape—coupled with infighting amongst Palestinian Authority politicians—means that no progress will likely be made on Palestinian and Israeli peace talks. Similarly, the trip is unlikely to push Israel towards greater support for the Ukrainians war effort. The trip’s policy impacts will be limited to shoring up the public face of U.S. support for Israel, particularly in the context of Iran.