ABSTRACT
The relationship between the United States and Israel has been characterized as special by scholars, observers, policymakers, and diplomats alike. The Jimmy Carter and Menachem Begin administrations became divided over numerous issues that directly affected the US-Israeli relationship. The US-Israeli relationship during the eight years Ronald Reagan held office was generally characterized by close positive ties, but there were also specific, divergent interpretations regarding the regional situation, the peace process, and Israel's security needs. President Barack Obama has declared that "the deep bonds of friendship between the United States and Israel remain as strong and unbreakable as ever". During the first year and a half of the George H. W. Bush administration, Israel and the United States were preoccupied with the effort to begin a negotiating process between Israel and the Palestinians. The Hillary Clinton tenure ended without an Israeli-Palestinian peace accord and with the area engulfed in violence.
