Many officials in the United States claim that the US is the leading nation in defending democracy and human rights. This nation is always criticizing global injustices. However, when it comes to Israel, it seems inconsistent. There is no doubt in it that the US provides financial aid and military support to Israel. But it also condemns Israel’s actions, particularly its treatment of Palestinians. It raises serious questions as to why Israel is not serious about the US concerns and continues its dual policies.
Why does the US support Israel?
One key factor might be the influence of pro-Israel lobby groups in Washington. These groups have a significant impact on the political land of the United States as its main agenda is to stop politicians from criticizing Israel. This may be the basic reason for the US’s strong support for Israel.
These lobbying groups in the United States also make Israel powerful enough to ignore America’s criticism. They pursue their agenda without any fear of substantial repercussions.
The US operates more like a plutocracy than a true democracy. Many big financial donors influence political campaigns. AIPAC is one of the top organizations that support Israel. It means that politicians also support Israel’s illegal action because they want funding from these lobbying groups. Due to this reliance, it is hard for the United States laws to stand against Israeli interests, even when they might be needed.
Besides this, many US evangelical Christians stand in favour of Israel because of their religious beliefs. This Christian support also forces the politicians to back Israel’s actions.
This often leads the US to prioritize Israeli security over humanitarian concerns, like in Gaza.
For example, while Yemen has taken a stand against Israel’s actions in Gaza, the US has focused on protecting Israeli interests by forming a naval coalition against Yemen, rather than addressing the humanitarian crisis. This shows how US policies can be skewed in favour of Israel, even at the cost of its values and interests.
How does the US use its veto power?
To protect Israel from global criticism, the United States also uses its veto power at the United Nations Security Council. Former President Richard Nixon noted that after the Cold War, Israel’s importance to the United States decreased. It makes this support seem increasingly illogical.
The politicians of this nation rely on the media that strongly stand in favour of Israel. This media often repeats Israel’s “self-defence” claims, reinforcing American political backing for Israel and supporting Israel’s actions in Palestine. Politicians who criticize this viewpoint and challenge this claim face severe media attacks and character assassination. It includes Representatives Ilhan Omar, Rashida Tlaib, and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.
Historical examples show the high cost of opposing pro-Israel policies. President George H.W. Bush did not win re-election after he withheld loan guarantees from Israel due to its illegal settlements in the West Bank. The pro-Israel lobby worked against him, which contributed to his defeat. Similarly, former Senator Paul Findley criticized Israel’s policies and lost his seat. All of these examples indicated the role of media and lobbying groups in US political policies. So, the lobbying power can shape US policy and impact political careers.
The main issue is whether US political personalities will reconsider their strong support for Israel even after knowing their actions in Palestine. Right now, Israel gets strong financial aid and military support from the United States. This assistance helped Israel to continue its harsh action in Palestine.
All the leaders from different nations, such as the US, UK, Europe, and elsewhere need to decide whether they will support Israel or make efforts to stop their actions in Palestine.
Changing their stance could help reduce conflict and save lives in the Middle East, which affects the entire world.
People like Nelson Mandela are remembered and honoured for their bravery and commitment to justice, unlike some US presidents who have supported policies leading to the ongoing suffering in Palestine. This strong support for Israel has cost the US a lot of money and harmed its global reputation. Rethinking this support could help the US return to its core values of justice and fairness.
