ABSTRACT
The Middle East stands today at the center of world concern and international activity. The US, the hegemonial power following the end of the Cold War, is greatly involved in this region. One of its closest allies is Israel. The US and Israel have established an exceptional relationship, which has significant effects on events and processes in the entire Middle East. Israel depends on the US for military hardware, for support against hostile international organizations, and for economic and financial aid. In turn, it is viewed by the US as a strong and reliable ally which shares highly valuable intelligence, offers access, and cooperates in many strategic and diplomatic areas. US-Israel relations have become closer after the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks due to Washington’s view that the two countries are fighting the same battle against Arab and Islamic terrorism. Yet, a few American politicians and scholars have accused Israel and pro-Israeli organizations of exerting too much influence on US policy in the Middle East.
