The United States supports Israel mainly because Israel is a strategic ally in a critically important region of the Middle East. The relationship includes strong economic, military, and intelligence cooperation. Israel serves as a key foothold for the U.S. in the Middle East, helping to balance competing interests in the region, including countering threats from Iran and other hostile actors. The U.S. provides substantial military aid to Israel, with annual commitments in the billions, and political support, often using its United Nations Security Council veto power to protect Israel. Israel also shares democratic values with the U.S. and is seen as a stabilizing force in a volatile region. This support is viewed by some U.S. leaders as essential for American national security, with Israel described metaphorically as "America's aircraft carrier in the Middle East." Furthermore, some U.S. officials have viewed Israel as an extension of U.S. influence and power in the Middle East, making the alliance a key part of U.S. foreign policy and geopolitical strategy.
Strategic and Security Reasons
- Israel provides a military and intelligence foothold in the Middle East.
- The U.S. sees Israel as a partner in missile defense and containing threats like Iran.
- Israel's security is linked to U.S. security interests in the region.
- U.S. military aid to Israel is substantial and ongoing.
Political and Diplomatic Support
- The U.S. frequently uses its veto power at the UN to protect Israel from condemnation.
- The U.S. was the first to recognize Israel and has recognized Jerusalem as its capital.
- Israel is considered a major non-NATO ally of the U.S.
Shared Values and Alliances
- Israel is one of the few democracies in the region.
- The relationship is based on shared democratic values and mutual interests.
Geopolitical Influence
- Israel is viewed as an extension of U.S. imperial power in the Middle East.
- This alliance helps the U.S. maintain influence and stability in a strategically vital region.
This broad and deep bilateral relationship explains why the U.S. strongly supports Israel despite controversies and changing public opinions.
