Conflict between Hamas and Israel Influences the 2024 U.S. Presidential Primaries, Potentially Favoring Nikki Haley

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Nikki Haley has consistently sought to differentiate herself from her Republican competitors in the presidential race on matters of foreign policy. Frequently referencing her time as U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, she discusses her perspective on geopolitical challenges posed by China and Russia.

The recent hostilities initiated by Hamas against Israel have had a significant impact on American political discourse, bringing foreign policy considerations to the forefront of the primary contest—a realm in which Haley is well-versed.

While trailing behind former President Donald Trump despite two robust debate appearances, Haley is actively framing herself as his principal competitor by contrasting their approaches to America’s role in global affairs. She links the Israeli-Hamas conflict to her own conservative domestic agenda, contending that the “distractions” affecting both Israel and the U.S. could render both countries susceptible to threats.

“In a recent interview, she stated, ‘When America is divided and distracted, our adversaries take notice, perceiving it as a sign of weakness. The same has happened in Israel with their own internal distractions. We should not believe ourselves to be so invulnerable that internal division and distraction won’t exact a toll.'”

When probed further, Haley declined to critique Israel. However, she did cite various challenges facing the United States, such as the ousting of House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, escalating national debt, and increasing illegal border crossings and fentanyl confiscations at the U.S.-Mexico frontier.

Both Haley and other Republicans have suggested that radicals could potentially enter the U.S. via the southern border to orchestrate attacks akin to those by Hamas. Although no definitive proof has been offered that Hamas has exploited this route, the Department of Homeland Security’s recent national threat assessment did indicate that individuals with “possible ties to terrorism” continue to attempt entry into the country.

Republicans have collectively supported Israel in the wake of the conflict, criticizing President Joe Biden for his dealings with Iran. Particularly, they point to a $6 billion transaction as part of an American hostage release agreement. Iran has been a historical supporter of Hamas, although there is no verified evidence implicating Iranian involvement in the recent attacks.

Senator Tim Scott has called for a Senate Banking Committee investigation into these funds, while Governor Ron DeSantis suggested state-level sanctions against Iran for its ongoing support of Hamas.

Even before the outbreak of hostilities, Haley had been challenging her rivals on topics like U.S. backing for Ukraine in its conflict with Russia and America’s approach towards China. In multiple debates, she has argued that her foreign policy experience sets her apart from other candidates, including entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, whom she criticized for his foreign policy naiveté and for utilizing TikTok, a Chinese-owned app.

While Trump has skipped recent debates and remains at the top of the polls, Haley’s campaign has started to focus on DeSantis as a key competitor. Her support and fundraising efforts have been picking up pace, with donors highlighting her foreign policy experience as a unique advantage.

Nikki Haley’s robust advocacy for Israel during her time as U.N. Ambassador resonates with a particular segment of the GOP base, particularly white evangelical voters who have substantial influence in states like Iowa. Her foreign policy credentials appear to be a significant factor attracting voters, as was evident during her recent campaigning in Iowa.

Polls conducted before the recent conflict indicated that a higher percentage of Republicans view Israel as an ally with shared values compared to Democrats or the general adult population. As the U.S. moves closer to its primary elections, Haley’s foreign policy expertise could potentially offer her a distinct edge.

Contributions to this report were made by Big Big News reporters Thomas Beaumont in Boone, Iowa, and Elliot Spagat in San Diego.

Meg Kinnard can be contacted at http://twitter.com/MegKinnardAP.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Nikki Haley 2024 presidential primaries

More about Nikki Haley 2024 presidential primaries

• Nikki Haley’s Official Campaign Website
• Department of Homeland Security National Threat Assessment
• Polling Data on Republican Views on Israel
• U.S. Senate Banking Committee on Iran’s Funds
• Biographical Information on Vivek Ramaswamy
• Ron DeSantis’ Foreign Policy Views
• Big Big News-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research
• Historical Context of Hamas-Israel Conflicts