Rahm Emanuel to 'Post': Israel has an America problem, not a Democrat problem

Rahm Emanuel, former White House chief of staff and a potential 2028 presidential hopeful, delivered a sharp critique of Israel's government and its international standing during a speech in Tel Aviv. Emanuel, who has a long and often contentious relationship with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, directly addressed the prime minister a dozen times in his remarks.

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Israel as a “territorial pariah” that has “lost Europe,” a prime minister who “led Israel into a dead end,” a promise to sanction violent settlers along with the officials who enabled them, and the companies and banks that financed settlement building.

Emanuel described Israel as a "territorial pariah" that has "lost Europe." He accused Netanyahu of leading Israel into a "dead end" and vowed to support sanctions against violent settlers and the officials who enable them. He also stated that companies and banks financing settlement construction could face similar measures. Furthermore, Emanuel suggested an end to American military aid to Israel and controversially proposed a "23-state solution" instead of the two-state solution, which he called "discredited."

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I’m for a state.

In a private meeting, Emanuel reportedly detailed his views to New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani. He also told The Post that he would not accept backing from the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) if he were to run for president. Emanuel confirmed that his sanctions logic could extend to Israel's banking system. When asked about the absence of a Palestinian state in his speech, he stated, "I'm for a state."

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I believe in honesty.

Emanuel defended his candid approach, telling The Post, "I believe in honesty." He acknowledged that his speech might anger many in his audience but insisted on the importance of candor. He cited statistics indicating Israel's lowest standing in America since 1948, particularly among younger demographics.

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Almost the candor to a fault.