To understand the relationship between Israel and the U.S.,we need to understand the historical backdrop in which this has emerged. Since the creation of Israel, the U.S. has long been the primary sponsor and mediator in the Israeli-Palestinian peace process. Elgindy’s discussion explains how the mediator position of the United States has, directly and indirectly, influenced the achievement of a peace agreement with Palestine. He highlights how this unique relationship between the U.S. and Israel has played a pivotal role in shaping Israel’s position on the global stage. In particular, he argues that “the peace process has been infused with the idiosyncracies of American politics that have resulted in the creating a blind unequal balance of power between Palestinians and Israel.
Since the start of the Oslo peace process, the U.S. administration has consistently put its thumb in favor of Israel’s position, according to the article. This favoritism is evident in how the U.S. downplays internal political aspects of the Palestinian government and institutions, creating the political disparities Palestinians have faced over the years. Even though the article did not blend either side of how these relationship has evolved, it clearly emphasizes that the role of the U.S. has been determined in leading into this. According to Elgindy, this “pleasing” position with Israel has been the result of the powerful lobbies in D.C. However, I think that some of this favoritism position concerns the U.S. keeping its hegemonic power in the Middle East.
American policy in the Middle East has been clear, ensuring access to the Middle East oil and keeping the region stable enough that this access is not blocked. In particular, when it comes to Israel, the United States has a strong security interest. For example, Isarael’s military and intelligence capabilities are highly advanced. In addition, they have extensive experience in counterterrorism and combating terrorism. These two components represent high-value access for the United States because it means they can have access to it.
I think the current war between Israel and Hamas raises this sentiment of the hot and cold game that the U.S. has been playing with Israel in the Middle East. This ongoing conflict highlights the delicate balancing act the U.S. must perform due to its strong alliances with Israel and its support for a two-state solution for Israelis and Palestinians. The U.S. finds itself in a challenging position. As this conflict evolved, It would be interesting to see how the US navigated this complex web of relationships and interests. Some of the question that are up in the air is: Would they provide more military support to Israel? OR will it shift its focus toward finding common ground? However, as many analyses have predicted, this war would be long and challenging, adding another layer of complexity to the U.S. role in the region.
One reply on “Week #9”
Hi Yazmerlyn, while I do agree that the U.S. has been more on Israel’s side, I believe there is a critical point you are missing with regard to the current conflict. Hamas is not the Palestinian government. Hamas is not in the party in power in the PA. Most importantly, Hamas is a terrorist organization.
If we were discussing a war between Israel and the PA, that would be one conversation. However, for the PLO, PIJ, Hamas, Hezbollah or any other terrorist organization that Israel has dealt with, there is no common ground or fairness. The U.S. absolutely should not expect let alone push for any sort of agreement with Hamas until the security threat is eradicated.