Israel, the United States, and the War Against Hamas, JulyAugust 2014

Launched in 2014, "Operation Protective Edge" saw heavy fighting between the Israel Defense Forces and Hamas in Gaza. The US government media spokespersons confirmed Israel's right to self-defense, and condemned Hamas for initiating the conflict and its use of human shields. However, US government public criticisms relating to Gazan civilian loss of life damaged Israel on the international stage. Political and military policies have to be directed to prevent a rift, but the "Protective Edge" experience brought to the fore that in times of crisis Israel cannot rely on a "special relationship" to secure its safety. It must possess the political will and military ability to take actions that may result in a strained relationship.