ABSTRACT
Chapter 6 focuses on the Clinton administration. When Clinton came to office, it quickly became clear that he would be a staunch advocate for and friend of Israel. Despite Clinton’s support for Middle East peace negotiations, the Clinton administration implicitly endorsed the use of U.S. loan guarantees for Israeli settlements. President Clinton proved to be one of the most pro-Israel presidents, and by the end of his eight years in office, Israeli settlements had vastly expanded. Always cognizant of the political price Bush had paid with the appearance of pressuring Israel, Clinton was hesitant to confront Israel and was more sympathetic to Israeli security needs. His political instincts told him never to get ahead of Israel.
