Israel, MAGA, and West Asia tensions.
When Donald Trump withdrew his endorsement of Marjorie Taylor Greene, the far-right Georgia representative who had become one of his most loyal allies, on November 15, many dismissed it as just another piece of political theater. But the moment represents something much more important than a personal feud. It is indicative of a deepening civil war within the Republican Party over who will lead the conservative movement after Trump and what “America First” should really mean.
The divisive issue is no longer just immigration or the economy. It is foreign policy, and at its heart is “Israel.” For the first time in decades, the Republican Party is fighting over whether Washington’s unconditional support for Israel actually serves American interests. This battle is redefining the American “right” and could redefine how the United States engages with the Middle East. For countries in the region, especially those seeking a just peace for Palestine, the divide offers a rare opportunity to engage with a changing political landscape in Washington.
The Post-Trump Struggle: MAGA vs. America First
Marjorie Taylor Greene’s background reflects the trajectory of the movement she helped create. As one of Trump’s most loyal supporters, she became a symbol of “MAGA” populism and anti-establishment anger. But as the movement matures, Greene has redefined herself as an “America First” hero and has set her sights on a future beyond Trump’s personal shadow. Her rift with Trump reflects more than just a political rivalry. This reflects a deeper ideological battle emerging between two factions: the “MAGA” loyalists who see Trump as the movement’s undisputed leader, and the “America First” nationalists who want to build on his populist legacy but pursue a more independent and non-interventionist foreign policy.
The “MAGA” faction, driven by Christian nationalism and cultural rancor, remains deeply tied to the pro-Israel establishment that has dominated Republican politics for decades. Its leaders, including Mike Johnson and Lindsey Graham, frame Israel not just as a strategic ally but as a sacred cause. Their discourse blends religion and geopolitics, and they see Israel’s survival as central to their understanding of the Christian apocalypse and Western civilization.