In the global arena, the U.S.-led Western European bloc is encircled by hostile neighbors. To the west in the Pacific region are China and North Korea. In the north and east are Russia, and to the south are Iran and its allies. Israel is also surrounded on all sides by hostile neighbors who wish to destroy it. In the west is Hamas in Gaza, to its north is Hezbollah in Lebanon, to its east is the Palestinian Authority in the West Bank and to its south are the Houthi rebels. All are backed by Iran.
The nexus of the enemies of Israel and the United States is Iran and its proxies. Both Israel and America are under the same threat from them, as in “Death to America” and “Death to Israel.” In view of their common enemies, America and Israel are basically joined at the hip and should have a natural affinity to align themselves for mutual survival. And in practice they have been excellent partners over the years.
In spite of this, however, when it comes to Israel, American aid is rarely unconditional. There always seems to be a “but” or a condition attached. Now, for example, American aid and assistance for the Gaza war comes with calls for, or outright pressure for, a cease-fire or a two-state solution, or restraint in the bombing of “civilian” targets within which the Hamas war criminals hide, or change in war plans, or even changes in government or its policies. Such conditions are rarely attached in dealings with any other sovereign state.
The special relationship between Israel and the United States needs to continue, but should come with fewer strings attached.
