Why Does the US Defend Israel as if It Were Its Own Land?

America has a long-standing relationship with Israel that stands out among its foreign alliances. The defense of Israel is often seen as a defensive measure akin to protecting homeland interests. However, the depth of this defense goes beyond mere friendship; it is fueled by a complex interplay of political, economic, and social dynamics.

Lengths the US Will Go To for Israel

The US offers substantial support to Israel, not just in terms of military aid but also in economic and technological cooperation. This support is often reciprocal, with Israel providing valuable intelligence and maintaining a stable democratic government in a region where that is rare. However, it is important to understand the underlying reasons behind this level of commitment.

One of the key reasons is the significant financial and political support from pro-Israel lobbies and Jewish-American voters. Pro-Israel lobbies in the US have a substantial influence over US policy toward Israel, pushing for policies that align with Israeli interests. Similarly, Jewish-American voters, who are concentrated in swing states like Florida, Arizona, and Georgia, play a crucial role in shaping US policy.

For instance, the American policy toward the normalization of relations with Cuba is a stark contrast. The powerful Cuban-American voting bloc in Florida ensures that any attempt to normalize relations with Cuba would face fierce opposition, given their strong ties to the current regime. This analogy helps to illustrate the significant sway that Jewish-American voters and lobbies have on US policy toward Israel.

Factors Influencing American Pro-Israel Policies

Several factors contribute to the strong pro-Israel stance of the US. These include:

Pro-Israel Lobbies: Organizations like AIPAC (American Israel Public Affairs Committee) have a significant influence on US foreign policy. They often mobilize public opinion and lobby lawmakers to support policies that favor Israel. Pro-Israel Voting Bloc: Jewish-American voters, concentrated in key swing states, have a particularly powerful influence. Their votes can swing elections, and their opinions shape the stance of political parties on issues related to Israel. Cold War Era Ally: Israel has been a longstanding ally of the US, especially during the Cold War era. This historical relationship has shaped US foreign policy and continues to influence decisions today. Economic and Strategic Interests: Israel's strategic and economic importance, especially in the tech and intelligence sectors, makes it a valuable ally. The US often seeks strategic cooperation and intelligence sharing with Israel.

Swing State Influence

The concentration of Jewish-American voters in swing states such as Florida, Arizona, and Georgia plays a crucial role in shaping US policy toward Israel. These states are often considered vital in presidential elections, and a significant vote from these communities can make a difference in key races.

Surveys show that the opinion of Jewish-American voters on US aid to Israel is mixed. While a significant portion of this community supports Israeli policies, there is also a generational divide. Younger Jewish-Americans tend to be more supportive of the Israeli government, while older generations may have different views. However, overall, a majority of Jewish-American voters do not support the boycott, divestment, and sanctions (BDS) movement against Israel.

The Biden administration's policies toward Israel have received strong support from the Jewish-American community. A 2022 survey by the Jewish Electorate Institute found that a significant majority of Jewish Americans support the Biden government's favorable and pro-Israel policies. Additionally, while there is some support for conditioning US aid to Israel, a substantial portion of Jewish-American voters do not oppose aid outright.

Conclusion

The relationship between the US and Israel is multifaceted and deeply rooted in political, economic, and social factors. The defense of Israel goes beyond mere support; it is a strategic alliance built on mutual interests and historical ties. Understanding the influence of pro-Israel lobbies and the role of Jewish-American voters in key states provides a clearer picture of the factors behind American pro-Israel policies.