The U.S. — Israel Alliance, Well Thats Complicated
“Ilhan Omar’s Criticism Raises the Question: Is AIPAC too Powerful,” read a recent New York Times article. Much of recent news commentary has highlighted remarks made by the freshman House Democrat about the relationship between the pro-Israel lobby, the Jewish people, the Israeli government, and the United States; however, many political pundits have ignored the complexity of the circumstances regarding America’s support for Israel. The relationship between the two countries should be viewed within the context of the reasons for establishing the State of Israel.
In order to adequately discuss this subject, one must understand the relevant terminology. To be pro-Israel is to be in favor of the State of Israel, namely the government and its current leaders; it is both possible to be in favor of the State of Israel and against the current Israeli government leaders. Zionism is the belief that Jews deserve their own state in their ancestral homeland, Israel. The discussion of Israel in the realm of American politics often refers exclusively to politicians that are either for or against the Israeli government; however, a growing portion of Democratic politicians refer to themselves as advocates of boycotting, divesting, and sanctioning the Jewish state.
As with all public policy issues, debate should ensue but there should be an…
