The U.S.-Israel Alliance: A Story of Strategy, Survival, and Influence

The United States and Israel share one of the world’s strongest alliances, built on military cooperation, economic partnerships, and diplomatic strategy. But this partnership wasn’t always inevitable. It was shaped by political hesitations, wars, and global power shifts—ultimately solidifying Israel as a key U.S. ally.

Truman’s Recognition: A Surprising Decision

On May 14, 1948, Israel declared independence—the first Jewish state in 2,000 years. Just 11 minutes later, President Harry Truman made the U.S. the first nation to recognize Israel.

Many in Truman’s administration opposed the decision, fearing it would alienate Arab nations and threaten U.S. oil interests. Truman himself was known for antisemitic remarks, making his recognition of Israel even more surprising.

So why did he act so quickly? The answer lies with Edward Jacobson, a Jewish businessman and Truman’s longtime friend.

In March 1948, Jacobson walked into the Oval Office and urged Truman to meet Chaim Weizmann, a Zionist leader. He didn’t use political arguments—instead, he made it personal:

"Harry, I have a hero too. His name is Chaim Weizmann. He’s old, sick, and he traveled thousands of miles to see you. And you won’t even meet him? That’s not like you, Harry."

Truman agreed. Days later, he met Weizmann, who made a compelling case for recognizing Israel. Truman saw Israel as a potential Cold War ally, and on May 14, 1948, he made history.

From Recognition to Military Alliance

At first, U.S. military support for Israel was limited. In fact, the U.S. imposed an arms embargo, forcing Israel to buy weapons from Czechoslovakia, a Soviet-backed country.

That changed in 1962, when President John F. Kennedy approved the first arms deal, selling Hawk anti-aircraft missiles to Israel. But the real turning point came in 1967, during the Six-Day War.

Israel’s lightning-fast victory over Egypt, Jordan, and Syria shocked the world and proved Israel’s military strength. The U.S. took notice—seeing Israel as a counterbalance to Soviet-backed Arab states.

By 1969, President Richard Nixon significantly increased military and economic aid, marking the start of deep military ties.

The Yom Kippur War: America Steps In

In 1973, during the Yom Kippur War, Egypt and Syria launched a surprise attack on Israel. This time, the U.S. directly intervened, launching Operation Nickel Grass, a massive airlift of military supplies.

While this solidified U.S.-Israel defense ties, it also led to the Arab oil embargo, triggering a major energy crisis in the U.S. Despite economic struggles, the U.S.-Israel alliance only grew stronger.

Key Moments in U.S. Support

• 1981 – President Ronald Reagan designated Israel a strategic ally, increasing intelligence-sharing and arms sales.

• 1980s – Israel was named a "Major Non-NATO Ally," strengthening military and technological cooperation.

• 2007 – President George W. Bush approved a $30 billion military aid package.

• 2016 – President Barack Obama signed a record $38 billion military aid deal.

Today, the U.S. has provided over $300 billion in aid to Israel—with $228 billion dedicated to military assistance.

Beyond Military: A Thriving Economic and Tech Partnership

The U.S.-Israel relationship isn’t just about defense—it’s also about economic and technological collaboration.

🔹 Bilateral trade exceeds $50 billion annually.

🔹 The U.S. is Israel’s largest trading partner.

🔹 Israeli innovations in AI, cybersecurity, and medicine are shaping the future.

🔹 Tech giants like Intel, Google, Apple, and Microsoft have major R&D centers in Israel.

🔹 Israel is a global leader in energy innovation, partnering with the U.S. on natural gas and renewables.

Diplomatic and Political Influence

The U.S. also plays a key diplomatic role in supporting Israel.

🔹 Blocking anti-Israel resolutions at the U.N.

🔹 Securing peace deals—like the 2020 Abraham Accords between Israel and Arab nations.

🔹 Mediating U.S.-Saudi-Israel relations—until the recent Hamas-Israel war disrupted talks.

Challenges in the U.S.-Israel Relationship

Despite the strong alliance, there have been policy disagreements:

🔹 The Iran Nuclear Deal (2015) – Israel opposed it, but the Obama administration moved forward.

🔹 U.S. arms sales to Arab states – Israel protested the U.S. selling F-35 jets to Qatar.

🔹 Gaza and Palestinian issues – The U.S. and Israel sometimes clash over peace efforts and security concerns.

So, as global politics evolve, new questions arise: Will the U.S. continue high levels of military aid? How will shifting Middle Eastern alliances impact the relationship? But for now, one thing is certain: The U.S.-Israel alliance remains one of the most influential partnerships in global geopolitics.

For more information, please watch our video here.