Since the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948, the relationship between the United States and Israel has been characterized by a strong and unwavering bond, with the U.S. providing unlimited support to Israel across all fronts. This support raises many questions about the reasons and motives behind it. Is it merely a strategic alliance, or are there deeper factors at play that have sustained this policy for more than seven decades?
Table of Contents
Toggle1. Strategic and Security Factors
First and foremost, the U.S. support for Israel can be explained through strategic and security considerations. Israel is located in the Middle East, a region that is constantly embroiled in conflicts and regional tensions, and it serves as a critical pivot for U.S. policy in the area. Israel represents a strong ally in countering regional threats, especially from countries such as Iran, Syria, and extremist Islamic movements. From this perspective, the U.S. sees Israel as a stabilizing force that can help achieve its security objectives in the region.
2. Domestic Political Influence in the United States
Another factor contributing to the unlimited American support for Israel is domestic political influence. There are a significant number of Jewish organizations playing an essential role in American politics, such as the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC). These organizations work diligently to maintain a strong relationship between the U.S. and Israel, significantly influencing U.S. policies toward the Middle East. Additionally, Israel enjoys strong bipartisan support from both Republican and Democratic factions in the United States, with Israel being regarded as a cornerstone of American foreign policy in the region.
3. Economic and Technological Factors
Beyond political support, Israel also stands as a powerful economic and technological force in the region. Israel is one of the most advanced nations in fields such as cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and military technology. The United States benefits from close cooperation with Israel in these areas, as American companies leverage Israeli innovations. Moreover, Israel receives substantial economic and military aid from the U.S., which indirectly boosts the American economy.
4. Cultural and Religious Factors
The relationship between the U.S. and Israel is not solely political or economic; it is also deeply rooted in cultural and religious factors. The American public, particularly among evangelical Christians, has a strong support for Israel based on religious beliefs that supporting Israel is part of fulfilling Christian prophecies. This religious support further enhances political backing for Israel within the U.S. Additionally, Jews in the U.S. constitute an influential community and play a key role in shaping American policies toward Israel.
5. Strategic Trends in U.S. Foreign Policy
The United States considers Israel as one of the cornerstones of its foreign policy in the Middle East. Since the end of the Cold War, the U.S. has viewed Israel as a strategic ally in countering any threats to its interests in the region. The American-Israeli relationship provides the U.S. with a foothold to influence other major powers in the region, such as Russia and China, while also bolstering its military presence in the area.
6. Challenges in the U.S.-Israel Relationship
Despite the strong bond, the U.S.-Israel relationship is not without challenges. Over the years, there have been periods of tension between American and Israeli leadership, particularly regarding the Israeli-Palestinian peace process. However, this continuous support reflects the evolution of U.S. policy, which sees Israel not only as a strategic ally but as part of a long-term project aimed at maintaining American dominance in the Middle East.
Conclusion
The United States’ unlimited support for Israel is not driven by a single factor, but rather a combination of strategic, security, political, economic, and religious considerations. All of these factors contribute to the strengthening of the relationship between the two countries, making this alliance one of the most enduring in modern history. Ultimately, it can be said that American policy toward Israel is not just a passing interest but a central part of a long-term strategy aimed at ensuring stability in the Middle East and safeguarding American security and economic interests in the region.
References:
- Israel–United States relations
- The Gaza War and the Future of Democracy in the United States and Israel
- “America First” Does Not Mean Unlimited Support for Israel
- After Trump turns against Zelensky and other allies, could Israel be next in line?
- Why does Trump want to take over Gaza and could he do it?
- US and Israel reject Arab alternative to Trump’s Gaza plan