The relationship between the United States and Israel is one of the most enduring and strategically significant alliances in modern geopolitics. From military aid and diplomatic backing to shared cultural values and economic collaboration, the depth of the US support for Israel raises an essential question: Why does the US support Israel so strongly, and often unflinchingly?
In this article, we unpack the historical roots, political drivers, strategic interests, and cultural factors that shape US support for Israel, revealing the complex tapestry that holds this alliance together.
1. Historical Foundations of the US-Israel Relationship
The origins of the US-Israel alliance trace back to May 14, 1948, when the United States became one of the first countries to officially recognize the newly established State of Israel. This came just minutes after Israel declared independence.
The support was partly rooted in the aftermath of World War II and the Holocaust, which had left six million Jews dead and created widespread sympathy for a Jewish homeland. The horrors of genocide galvanized global opinion, particularly in Western democracies like the United States, to support the Zionist cause and the formation of Israel.
This early diplomatic recognition laid the foundation for a deeper relationship that evolved through Cold War dynamics, Middle Eastern conflicts, and shifting regional alliances.
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2. Shared Democratic and Cultural Values
A key reason for US support for Israel is the alignment of democratic values and cultural similarities. Both nations are rooted in democratic governance, freedom of speech, the rule of law, and robust judicial systems.
Israel is often referred to as the “only democracy in the Middle East,” a fact that has earned it respect and support from American policymakers who see Israel as a natural ally in a region filled with autocracies, theocracies, and unstable regimes.
Additionally, the cultural ties between the two countries are deepened by a significant and influential Jewish-American community, which helps foster mutual understanding and promotes cultural exchange, religious connections, and advocacy.
3. Strategic Military and Intelligence Alliance
Beyond values and history, US support for Israel is strongly influenced by strategic military interests. Israel serves as a key ally in a geopolitically volatile region.
Key elements of the military alliance include:
- Intelligence sharing on threats like Iran, terrorism, and regional instability.
- Joint military exercises and weapons development.
- US funding for Israeli defense systems, including the Iron Dome, which intercepts short-range rockets and artillery shells.
- Prepositioned US military stockpiles in Israel for use in times of regional conflict.
Israel’s military strength, bolstered by US support, acts as a deterrent to hostile states and non-state actors, thus aligning with broader American security interests in the Middle East.
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4. Economic and Technological Collaboration
The economic relationship between the US and Israel is another major driver of their close ties. Israel is a global leader in cybersecurity, medical tech, defense innovation, and agriculture—areas where the United States also seeks leadership and growth.
Many American tech firms operate in Israel, and Israeli startups regularly attract American venture capital. The two nations have a free trade agreement (the first of its kind the US signed with any country, back in 1985), facilitating billions of dollars in bilateral trade annually.
This mutually beneficial economic partnership strengthens US support for Israel by tying their futures together in terms of innovation, business, and technological progress.
5. Political Lobbying and Influence
One of the most visible drivers of US support for Israel is the influence of pro-Israel lobbying organizations, most notably the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC).
AIPAC is one of the most powerful lobbying groups in Washington, routinely engaging members of Congress and the executive branch to advocate for pro-Israel policies, increased military aid, and opposition to initiatives seen as hostile to Israeli interests.
Additionally, Evangelical Christians in the US—a key voting bloc, especially among conservatives—also support Israel for biblical and theological reasons, believing in the fulfillment of prophetic scripture tied to the land of Israel.
This mix of lobbying strength and religious advocacy has ensured that US politicians across both parties often maintain strong pro-Israel stances.
6. Bipartisan Congressional Support
Another reason the US consistently backs Israel is bipartisan support in Congress. Despite increasing political polarization, support for Israel has traditionally enjoyed consensus across party lines.
For example, military aid packages to Israel—such as the $3.8 billion annual commitment under the 2016 Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)—have passed with strong support from both Republicans and Democrats.
Though some progressive lawmakers and segments of the Democratic Party have raised concerns about Israel’s policies, especially regarding Palestinian rights and settlements, the majority of US lawmakers continue to see Israel as a vital ally deserving of protection and support.
7. The Moral Argument: Israel’s Right to Exist and Defend Itself
Much of the moral justification for US support for Israel centers on its right to exist in peace and security. Since its founding, Israel has faced numerous wars, constant regional hostility, and terrorist threats from groups like Hamas, Hezbollah, and Iranian-backed militias.
US leaders frequently emphasize that Israel is surrounded by adversaries, and they affirm its right to self-defense. This framing positions Israel not just as an ally, but as a victim of aggression, reinforcing the moral rationale for ongoing support.
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8. Counterterrorism and Regional Stability
Israel is a critical partner in US counterterrorism efforts, offering on-the-ground intelligence and surveillance capabilities that help protect American interests across the Middle East.
Through its technological capabilities and military reach, Israel helps monitor and contain threats from extremist groups operating in Syria, Lebanon, the Gaza Strip, and Iran.
In an era of shifting alliances and rising global instability, US support for Israel helps ensure a stable, pro-American presence in a region essential to global oil supplies, trade routes, and security balance.
9. Israel as a Technological Testbed
Israel’s unique security challenges and small size have made it a testing ground for US military and surveillance technology. From drone warfare to missile defense, the Israeli battlefield often becomes a real-world laboratory for innovations that are later adopted by the US military.
This synergy allows American defense contractors and the Pentagon to gain valuable insights while supporting a close ally, further justifying the billions spent on joint military programs.
10. Critics and Shifting Public Opinion
Despite the strong alliance, US support for Israel is not without controversy. Critics argue that unconditional support enables Israeli policies that harm Palestinians and undermine peace efforts.
There is growing debate in the US—especially among younger voters, progressives, and international human rights organizations—about:
- Israel’s settlement expansion in the West Bank.
- The humanitarian situation in Gaza.
- The US role in facilitating or ignoring human rights abuses.
These concerns have led to calls for a more balanced approach, but so far, they have not fundamentally changed US policy or reduced the flow of aid.
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A Multifaceted and Strategic Bond
The US support for Israel is driven by a convergence of strategic interests, moral commitments, shared values, religious and cultural ties, and political influence. While challenges and criticisms exist, the foundational pillars of the alliance remain strong.
Whether for military cooperation, technological advancement, democratic alignment, or mutual security, the United States sees Israel as a crucial partner in shaping the political landscape of the Middle East and safeguarding Western interests in a turbulent region.
As the world evolves, this alliance may face new tests, but history suggests it will continue to be a cornerstone of American foreign policy for decades to come.
