Meaning: This quote by journalist Chris Matthews addresses the United States' historical role in the Middle East as both a friend of Israel and an honest broker in the region's conflicts. The term "honest broker" refers to a neutral mediator or facilitator that seeks to help conflicting parties reach a fair and peaceful resolution. In this quote, Matthews suggests that the U.S. has shifted away from its impartial role as an honest broker and has become more closely aligned with Israel.

The United States' relationship with Israel has been a defining feature of its foreign policy in the Middle East for decades. Since Israel's establishment as a state in 1948, the U.S. has maintained a strong and strategic alliance with the country, providing military, economic, and diplomatic support. This alliance has been driven by shared democratic values, security interests, and historical ties between the two nations.

As a "friend of Israel," the U.S. has consistently supported Israel's right to exist and defend itself, often aligning its foreign policy with Israel's positions on regional issues. This has included advocating for Israel's security, opposing international efforts to isolate or sanction Israel, and providing diplomatic backing in forums such as the United Nations.

However, alongside its support for Israel, the U.S. has also sought to position itself as an "honest broker" in the complex and enduring conflicts of the Middle East, particularly the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. As an honest broker, the U.S. has historically attempted to facilitate negotiations and peace processes between Israel and the Palestinians, as well as other regional actors, with the aim of achieving a two-state solution and promoting stability in the region.

Matthews' assertion that the U.S. has "given up the honest broker role completely" suggests a departure from the traditional stance of neutrality and mediation in the region's conflicts. This criticism reflects a view held by some analysts and policymakers who argue that U.S. foreign policy has become increasingly one-sided in favor of Israel, particularly under the administration of former President Donald Trump.

During Trump's presidency, the U.S. took several controversial steps that were perceived as heavily favoring Israel, such as recognizing Jerusalem as Israel's capital and relocating the U.S. embassy there, as well as unveiling a peace plan that was largely viewed as aligning with Israeli positions. These actions led to accusations that the U.S. had abandoned its role as an impartial mediator and undermined the prospects for a negotiated resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

The shift in U.S. policy under the Trump administration has raised concerns about the implications for regional stability, the peace process, and America's broader role in the Middle East. Critics argue that by aligning too closely with Israel and departing from its role as an honest broker, the U.S. risks alienating key regional partners, exacerbating tensions, and diminishing its ability to effectively mediate conflicts or advance its interests in the region.

It is important to note, however, that perspectives on U.S. policy in the Middle East vary, and there are differing opinions on the extent to which the U.S. has abandoned its role as an honest broker. Some argue that the U.S. has never been a completely neutral mediator and that its support for Israel is consistent with its broader strategic interests and values in the region.

In conclusion, Chris Matthews' quote highlights the evolving nature of U.S. involvement in the Middle East, particularly in relation to its roles as a friend of Israel and an honest broker. The quote underscores the complexities and challenges inherent in U.S. foreign policy in the region, as well as the ongoing debates about the implications of the U.S. shifting away from its traditional role as a neutral mediator.