ABSTRACT

The modern Jewish state in biblical Palestine is inextricably linked to moral and ancient religious attitudes that became favorable at the beginning of the twentieth century. The United States shares this approach which is reflected in its vital role in the creation and existence of the modern Jewish state.1 Washington feels morally obligated to Israel and this stems, in part, from the strong influential domestic Jewish lobby, concerns regarding strategic US interests in the Gulf Region, and subsequent interests in stability in the oil rich Middle East. The US and Israel, therefore, share a special relationship that exists on a moral, strategic, and regional level. Although limited disagreements on detailed policy initiatives may emerge from time to time, US foreign policy in regards to Israel remains relatively static. Regional clashes, such as the war between Hezbollah and Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) in 2006, or the situation in Palestine, may strain this special relationship, but the strategic cooperation between the two powers remains relatively unwavering and strong. Yet, while US foreign interests are often expressed and maintained through its relationship with the State of Israel, the nature of this relationship may also be detrimental to US national security. This chapter examines the nature of US alignment with Israel and the regional implications of that alignment by way of historical assessment.