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Crash Course With Michael Walker
Why Britain Backs Israel (w/ David Wearing)
Nov 18, 2023
David Wearing, Lecturer in International Relations at the University of Sussex, discusses Britain's consistent support for Israel from Balfour to Braverman. Topics include economic interests, the influence of the Israel lobby, the perception of Israel as an outpost of Western Empire, similarities between apartheid in South Africa and Israel, and the power of the Israel lobby in undermining civil society movements.
57:03
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Quick takeaways
- Britain's long-standing support for Israel is driven by its geostrategic interests in the Middle East, including its control over maritime routes and access to oil resources.
- Britain's relationship with Israel shifted over time due to changing geopolitical dynamics, but Israel's military success and role in containing Arab nationalism solidified its value as an ally for Britain and the West.
Deep dives
The historical support of Britain for Israel
Britain has consistently supported Israel, from the Balfour Declaration in 1917 to present day. This support is driven by Britain's geostrategic interests in the Middle East. Palestine's location between Britain and India, along with its proximity to key maritime routes, made it strategically important for the British Empire. Additionally, the discovery of oil in the Middle East further heightened the strategic significance of the region. Britain's support for Israel was also motivated by the desire to cultivate local allies who would help maintain control and influence in the area, following a divide and rule strategy. This historical context helps to explain Britain's long-standing support for Israel.
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