President Reagan’s Strong Stance Against Israeli Shelling: A Look Back at 1982
President Reagan’s Forceful Stand Against Israeli Shelling in 1982 Resonates Today
In a rare display of anger, President Ronald Reagan confronted Israeli Prime Minister Menachem Begin over the civilian casualties caused by Israeli shelling in Lebanon in 1982. The president, shown images of innocent civilians, including a small baby with a severed arm, described the situation as a “holocaust” and demanded an immediate halt to the attacks.
The tense phone call between the two leaders on August 12, 1982, resulted in Mr. Begin eventually agreeing to cease the shelling, acknowledging the gravity of the situation. President Reagan’s firm stance against Israeli actions in Lebanon was a defining moment in his presidency, showcasing his willingness to use American influence to rein in Israeli military actions.
Decades later, President Joe Biden finds himself in a similar position, delaying arms shipments to Israel and threatening further action if attacks on Gaza continue. Supporters of President Biden’s decision point to the Reagan precedent, arguing that it is reasonable for a U.S. president to use leverage to prevent civilian casualties and promote peace in the region.
The comparison to President Reagan highlights the shifting dynamics of U.S.-Israel relations over the years. In the 1980s, bipartisan support for Israel was more common, with disagreements between leaders not causing lasting rifts. Today, however, Israel has become a divisive issue in American politics, with Republicans staunchly supporting the country and Democrats more divided on the issue.
President Reagan’s actions in 1982, including delaying arms shipments and condemning Israeli actions, set a precedent for future presidents to use their influence to shape Israeli policy. While the political landscape has changed since then, the legacy of President Reagan’s forceful stand against Israeli shelling continues to resonate in today’s debates over U.S. support for Israel.
