Ask Haviv Anything Episode 71: Why the heck does America support Israel?
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Dec 25, 2025 Why does America support Israel? Dive into the historical ties between U.S. backing and Jewish immigration policies. Discover Truman's swift recognition of Israel despite tensions and the country's early military independence. Explore the strategic dynamics of the Suez War and the emergence of Israel as a regional power post-1967. Unpack the impact of oil during the Yom Kippur War and how Israel became a key asset in U.S. intelligence efforts after 9/11. Finally, learn about the balance of support in contemporary politics and the pursuit of stability.
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Early U.S. Support Was Paradoxical
- Early U.S. support for Zionism existed even as Congress closed immigration to Jews in 1921.
- America backed a Jewish national home partly to direct Jewish migration away from U.S. borders.
Recognition Without Reliance
- The U.S. recognized Israel quickly in 1948 while also imposing an arms embargo during Israel's existential war.
- Israel's survival despite the embargo meant it began independent of U.S. military dependence.
Cold War Utility Cemented Ties
- Israel proved useful to the U.S. as a Cold War counterweight after the Suez events of 1956.
- American strategic interest shifted toward keeping Israel close to counter Soviet influence in the region.