Aid as leverage: the defensible argument

U.S. military aid can create leverage because Israel values continued access to munitions, replenishment, air defense, maintenance, and diplomatic backing. The Biden administration’s 2024 actions show that pressure sometimes changed specific, near-term decisions. Supplying precision guidance can also reduce delivery error compared with unguided weapons. Neither point proves that aid reliably controls Israeli strategy, that leverage was used enough, or that an accurate weapon makes a target choice or anticipated civilian harm lawful.

U.S. pressure produced some observable Israeli changes

April 2024 humanitarian-access pressure

On 4 April 2024, after the World Central Kitchen strike, President Biden told Prime Minister Netanyahu that U.S. policy would depend on “specific, concrete, and measurable steps” to reduce civilian harm and humanitarian suffering. The next day, the White House attributed Israeli cabinet commitments to Biden’s request, including opening the Erez crossing, enabling temporary use of Ashdod port, and increasing Jordan-to-Gaza aid through Kerem Shalom. White House readout · Kirby press gaggle.

This is evidence of influence over discrete actions, not proof of American control over the campaign. Whether the crossings produced adequate and durable flows is a separate outcome question.

Rafah and the paused bomb shipment

In May 2024 the United States paused one shipment containing approximately 1,800 2,000-pound bombs and 1,700 500-pound bombs because of concern about the effects of large explosives in densely populated Rafah. The Pentagon also required a credible civilian-evacuation plan and continued aid flows. Pentagon briefing, 9 May 2024 · Austin–Gallant call.

The pause was narrow: it did not suspend all assistance, and Israel proceeded with operations in Rafah. It nevertheless demonstrated that particular munitions could be withheld and that weapon access was treated as a pressure point.

In January 2025 President Trump released the held 2,000-pound bombs. Reuters report. That reversal supports a comparison between administrations; it does not by itself establish the causal effect of the bombs on later civilian harm.

Why continued aid can increase leverage

The strongest version of the argument is conditional:

1. Israel expects continued U.S. resupply, spare parts, air-defense interceptors, maintenance, intelligence cooperation, and diplomatic support.
2. Dependence creates repeated decision points at which the United States can attach conditions, delay items, demand reporting, or distinguish defensive from offensive systems.
3. A continuing relationship gives U.S. officials access, monitoring, and bargaining opportunities that a total rupture might reduce.
4. Therefore, conditioned and differentiated aid can provide more leverage than either automatic delivery or a one-time severance.

Counterargument that survives

Leverage exists only if Washington is willing to use it. Largely unconditional assistance can reassure Israeli leaders that defying U.S. preferences carries limited cost. The 2024 record shows both real pressure and conspicuous limits. “Aid creates leverage” is not a defense of every delivery; it is an argument for explicit conditions, benchmarks, and enforcement.

“More accurate bombs” — what precision does and does not do

Guidance kits such as JDAM convert compatible unguided bombs into weapons capable of striking designated coordinates with much smaller delivery error. Providing guidance, intelligence, and smaller or lower-yield options can reduce harm if the target is lawful, the coordinates and intelligence are sound, the weapon is suited to the environment, and the commander applies proportionality and precautions.

Precision does not answer:

• whether the person or object selected was a lawful military objective;
• whether the intelligence was current and reliable;
• whether a 2,000-pound warhead was excessive for the urban setting;
• whether civilians were expected in the blast and collapse radius;
• whether feasible alternatives existed;
• whether anticipated civilian harm was excessive relative to the concrete and direct military advantage.

See the CRS primer on precision-guided munitions and Laws of War (IHL).

Trump-era blockade, GHF, and famine chronology

Do not compress this into “Trump paused aid” without specifying the actor. Israel halted humanitarian and commercial entry on 2 March 2025; it partially reopened entry on 19 May. The U.S.- and Israel-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation began distributions on 27 May. The UN refused to participate, saying the model compromised humanitarian principles, promoted displacement, and exposed civilians to lethal danger. UN Special Committee report · UN agencies’ objection.

The IPC/Famine Review Committee later classified Famine with reasonable evidence in Gaza Governorate for the July–15 August 2025 analysis period and projected expansion. Direct evidence supported the food-deprivation and acute-malnutrition thresholds; the non-trauma mortality threshold was inferred as likely rather than directly measured. IPC special snapshot · Full evidence audit: Was There a Famine in Gaza - Alex de Waal Interview Fact-Check.

Causal boundary

The chronology supports criticism of the blockade and the GHF architecture, but “GHF caused the famine” is too simple. Entry restrictions, destruction, market collapse, insecurity, convoy interception, looting, distribution failures, displacement, and the geography of access all contributed. Conversely, interception and UN objections do not erase Israel’s obligations as the party controlling key access conditions. Full causal analysis: starvation_claims_debate_arguments.

Debate-ready formulation

“The record shows that U.S. pressure can move particular Israeli decisions: after Biden tied policy to measurable steps, Israel committed to additional crossings and port access, and Washington separately paused a heavy-bomb shipment over Rafah. Continued assistance can therefore be bargaining leverage and can supply more discriminating weapons—but only when aid is conditioned and the conditions are enforced. Precision reduces delivery error; it cannot legalize a bad target, an excessive warhead, or disproportionate expected harm.”

2026 opinion and the coexistence of support and restraint

Coleman Hughes / Elliot Kaufman — source-audited argument, 5 October 2026

Pew’s March survey reports 60% unfavorable views versus 53% in 2025. It does not identify causal shares attributable to media, conduct, partisanship or antisemitism. Pew survey · Interview explanations/limits

American assistance and restrictions coexisted. A paused bomb shipment did not suspend all military aid. Pentagon, May 9, 2024 · US support and disputes

Biden’s diversion warning did not waive civilian relief duties. Regional security interests coexist with substantive negotiating conditions. Aid speech/legal limits · Saudi normalization

Research checkpoints

• Separate air defense, maintenance, precision-guidance kits, small-diameter weapons, and heavy general-purpose bombs.
• For every claimed U.S. intervention, record the demand, Israeli commitment, implementation date, measured result, and duration.
• Do not infer durable compliance from a press announcement.
• Ask what consequence followed noncompliance.
• For humanitarian aid, separate entry authorization, collection, convoy security, warehouse delivery, final-mile distribution, and civilian access.

Related: LonerBox - Antisemitism, Hamas, US Leverage and Gaza Debate Panel · AIPAC · starvation_claims_debate_arguments · Gaza Casualty Figures

1970s

• CIA made a secret back channel with Arafat through Ali Hassan Salameh in 1970, who was the chief of operations for Black September who killed 11 Israeli’s are the Olympics.
  • Paid for Ali Hassan’s honeymoon to the United States, going to Disneyland and Hawaii.
  • CIA protected Ali Hassan, tipping him off about assassination attempts.
    • Provided encrypted communication equipment
• 1974: Arafat was welcomed to New York to give a speech before the UN General Assembly.
  • Israel was very angry and boycotted the speech.

1980s

• Jonathan Pollard
  • Spy for Israel against the United States

Summarized

The claim that the United States gains no benefit from its alliance with Israel is contradicted by decades of evidence showing deep, multifaceted cooperation across defense, intelligence, economics, diplomacy, and technology. Built on shared democratic values and formal agreements, the alliance includes Memoranda of Understanding for military aid, joint strategic declarations, and binational foundations supporting science, agriculture, and industrial R&D. U.S. military support to Israel ensures regional stability and secures America’s qualitative edge by funding systems like Iron Dome, David’s Sling, and the Arrow missile defense programs—technologies that are now integrated into U.S. forces. The U.S. has also adopted numerous Israeli battlefield innovations, from the Trophy Active Protection System to the Israeli Bandage, all of which have saved American lives. Joint exercises like Juniper Oak improve readiness and interoperability, and logistical cooperation—such as access to Haifa’s port and the WRSA-I stockpile—further boosts U.S. strategic flexibility.

Intelligence sharing is another cornerstone. Israeli alerts have prevented attacks on U.S. troops, provided actionable intelligence on ISIS and Iran, and enhanced America’s regional situational awareness. This collaboration extends into cybersecurity, where initiatives like the BIRD Cyber program and bilateral MoUs support critical infrastructure and commercial defense. Israel’s cyber ecosystem, led by elite units like Unit 8200, has contributed tools now used by U.S. agencies and companies. In science and tech, Israeli-American collaboration has produced billions in economic activity and high-impact innovations—like the PillCam, TytoCare’s home clinic, or Netafim’s drip irrigation—all widely used in the U.S. Israeli water technology companies like IDE and Watergen help address drought and water scarcity in states like California.

Economically, the U.S.-Israel Free Trade Agreement—the first signed by the U.S.—has expanded trade to over $37 billion annually, while Israeli companies have invested more than $22 billion in the U.S., creating tens of thousands of high-paying American jobs, especially in sectors like software, medical devices, and renewable energy. In Florida alone, Israeli-founded firms contribute $7.3 billion to the state economy. Venture capital flows both ways, with firms like Andreessen Horowitz investing heavily in Israeli startups whose technologies often enter the U.S. market. Israeli FDI strengthens U.S. competitiveness by injecting capital, know-how, and entrepreneurial talent into local ecosystems. Many Israeli entrepreneurs establish R&D hubs in U.S. cities, particularly in Silicon Valley and New York, integrating themselves into American tech ecosystems and creating joint ventures that enhance innovation pipelines. The cross-pollination of talent, technology, and capital has been a quiet but powerful force behind the growth of industries like cybersecurity, AI, medical diagnostics, and agritech.

Energy cooperation has also emerged as a growing facet of the alliance. Israel’s discovery of significant offshore natural gas reserves in the Eastern Mediterranean has opened up new avenues for regional energy diplomacy, including U.S.-backed frameworks like the EastMed Gas Forum. These developments advance U.S. strategic interests by promoting regional energy integration and offering European partners alternatives to Russian gas. American energy companies like Chevron have major stakes in Israeli fields, and Israel’s regional export capacity, including via partnerships with Egypt, complements U.S. goals of diversifying global energy sources.

Diplomatically, Israel aligns with the U.S. more than any other UN member, voting with it on 91% of contested resolutions in 2022. It joins U.S.-led initiatives like the Abraham Accords and I2U2, backs the IHRA’s antisemitism definition, and has cooperated with Arab states under U.S. mediation to counter Iranian threats. Its regional presence provides the U.S. with a reliable partner in a volatile area, acting as both a deterrent and a stabilizing force. Historically, it has supported U.S. efforts discreetly in sensitive regions when Washington faced political constraints.

The relationship also extends into education and culture, with vibrant academic and scientific exchanges through joint university programs, Fulbright fellowships, and binational innovation hubs. These exchanges not only foster long-term people-to-people ties but also incubate future collaboration in science, business, and public policy. Israeli universities regularly partner with U.S. institutions like MIT, Stanford, and NIH-affiliated research centers, while American students and researchers benefit from access to Israel’s advanced technological infrastructure and specialized programs in fields like biotech, water management, and cybersecurity. These ties deepen mutual understanding and reinforce the long-term foundation of the alliance.

In sum, the U.S.-Israel alliance is not merely symbolic or one-sided. It is an institutionalized partnership yielding real, measurable benefits for the United States: battlefield-tested technology, enhanced national security, robust economic growth, vital intelligence, regional stability, and collaborative innovation. While disagreements exist, the relationship is anchored in mutual strategic interest, with Israel acting as a force multiplier for American power and progress. The claim that Israel does nothing for the U.S. is not only false—it overlooks a long record of contributions that have saved lives, driven innovation, strengthened American industry, and helped secure critical national interests.

An Examination of Reciprocal Benefits in the U.S.-Israel Alliance

Introduction: Reassessing a Strategic Partnership

The assertion that the United States derives no tangible benefits from its longstanding alliance with Israel, and that Israel fails to contribute meaningfully to American interests, warrants a comprehensive, evidence-based examination. This report will delve into the multifaceted nature of the U.S.-Israel relationship, scrutinizing areas of cooperation including military and defense, intelligence sharing, technological and scientific collaboration, economic partnership, and diplomatic alignment. The objective is to provide an in-depth analysis of the ways in which Israel has supported and acted as an ally to the United States, drawing upon historical and contemporary data. Furthermore, this report will address specific claims regarding Israel’s alleged involvement in U.S. foreign policy actions in Syria. Through this detailed exploration, the report aims to offer a nuanced understanding of the reciprocal dynamics inherent in this enduring strategic partnership.

I. Pillars of the Alliance: Shared Values and Foundational Agreements

The strategic partnership between the United States and Israel is built upon a bedrock of shared democratic values and formalized through a series of foundational agreements that have evolved over decades. Israel is often described as an outpost for American values in a volatile region, characterized by a robust civil society, democratic institutions, free and fair elections, an independent judiciary, and a commitment to freedoms of speech and press These shared commitments to the rule of law, free markets, and technological innovation form a crucial, if less tangible, aspect of the alliance, fostering a basis for mutual understanding and cooperation

The formal architecture of the relationship includes numerous key agreements:

• Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) on Security Assistance: These are perhaps the most well-known agreements, outlining U.S. security assistance to Israel. The current 10-year MOU (FY2019-FY2028) commits the U.S. to provide $3.3 billion annually in Foreign Military Financing (FMF) and $500 million annually for joint missile defense programs These MOUs have been a consistent feature of the relationship, evolving from earlier agreements in the 1990s and 2000s which incrementally increased aid levels The 2016 MOU, effective FY2019, totals $38 billion over ten years These agreements aim to ensure Israel’s Qualitative Military Edge (QME) and support its capacity to defend itself, which in turn contributes to regional stability, a U.S. interest
• Strategic Cooperation Agreements: Beginning with the 1981 Strategic Cooperation Agreement and further solidified by the 1983 establishment of the Joint Political Military Group (JPMG) and a 1988 MOU, these agreements institutionalized regular consultations on security matters, joint exercises, prepositioning of U.S. military equipment in Israel, and co-development of defense technologies Israel was designated a Major Non-NATO Ally in 1987, further cementing this defense relationship
• The Jerusalem U.S.-Israel Strategic Partnership Joint Declaration (2022): This declaration reaffirms the “unbreakable bonds” and the U.S.’s “enduring commitment” to Israel’s security, emphasizing shared values and strategic interests vital to U.S. national security
• Binational Foundations: Several foundations promote cooperation in specific sectors:
  • The U.S.-Israel Binational Science Foundation (BSF): Established in 1972, it funds collaborative academic and scientific research
  • The Israel-U.S. Binational Industrial Research and Development Foundation (BIRD): Created in 1977, BIRD supports joint industrial R&D projects between U.S. and Israeli companies
  • The U.S.-Israel Binational Agricultural Research and Development Fund (BARD): Also established in 1977, BARD supports collaborative agricultural research
• U.S.-Israel Free Trade Agreement (FTA): Entering into force in 1985, this was the United States’ first FTA and has significantly expanded bilateral trade and investment
• U.S.-Israel Strategic High-Level Dialogue on Technology (2022): This initiative fosters partnership on critical and emerging technologies to address global challenges and protect innovative ecosystems

These agreements and shared principles are not merely symbolic; they create a framework for tangible cooperation across a wide spectrum of activities that yield mutual benefits. The longevity and consistent reaffirmation of these foundational elements, particularly the MOUs and strategic declarations, underscore a deep-seated U.S. recognition of Israel’s role as a strategic partner. This perception is rooted in Israel’s capacity to contribute to regional security and U.S. interests, a theme that has persisted from early Cold War considerations of Israel as a potential bulwark against Soviet influence 9 to contemporary views of Israel as a key partner in addressing threats like those posed by Iran and extremist groups The evolution from a policy of sympathy in 1948 to a robust strategic partnership demonstrates a continuous U.S. assessment of Israel’s value as an ally

II. Strength in Partnership: Military and Defense Cooperation

The military and defense relationship between the United States and Israel is extensive, deeply integrated, and provides significant, often underappreciated, benefits to U.S. national security and military capabilities. This cooperation manifests in joint development of advanced defense technologies, the adoption of Israeli military innovations by U.S. forces, extensive joint military exercises, and crucial logistical support.

A. Joint Development and U.S. Adoption of Israeli Defense Technologies

The collaboration on cutting-edge defense technologies has been a hallmark of the U.S.-Israel strategic partnership, yielding systems that protect both nations and enhance U.S. military superiority.

1. Missile Defense Systems:

   • Iron Dome: Co-developed with U.S. support, Iron Dome is renowned for its ability to intercept short-range rockets and artillery shells The U.S. has provided significant funding for its development and procurement, recognizing its life-saving potential The U.S. Marine Corps committed to purchasing Iron Dome batteries in August 2023, directly integrating this Israeli-developed technology into its own force structure
   • David’s Sling: This system, also co-developed with the U.S., is designed to intercept medium- to long-range rockets and cruise missiles
   • Arrow Missile Defense System: A long-standing joint program, the Arrow system provides upper-atmospheric interception capabilities against ballistic missiles The U.S. investment in these systems is not merely aid; it is an investment in technologies that provide critical data, shared development expertise, and potential applications for U.S. defense needs. For instance, Israel is now linked to U.S. early warning satellites, enhancing its national missile defense and contributing to a broader U.S.-led early warning architecture The continued U.S. commitment to funding these programs, including supplemental funding in exceptional circumstances 6, reflects their strategic importance.

2. Battlefield Innovations Adopted by the U.S. Military:

   Israel’s unique security challenges have spurred the development of innovative military technologies and tactics, many of which have been adopted by the U.S. military, saving American lives and improving operational effectiveness, particularly in asymmetric warfare environments.

   • Trophy Active Protection System (APS): Pioneered by Israel’s Rafael, Trophy neutralizes incoming anti-tank missiles and RPGs. The U.S. Army integrated Trophy onto its M1 Abrams tanks, which have since been deployed to Europe, significantly enhancing vehicle survivability Rafael is also adapting it for drones and loitering munitions
   • Emergency Bandage (“Israeli Bandage”): This Israeli-designed trauma bandage, allowing for one-handed application, became a staple in U.S. soldiers’ first aid kits during operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, directly saving lives on the battlefield
   • Armored D9 Bulldozers: The IDF’s modifications to D9 bulldozers for urban combat influenced U.S. tactics in Iraq, enabling safer breaching of fortifications
   • LITENING Targeting Pod: Co-produced by Northrop Grumman and Israel’s Rafael, this pod is used on U.S. F-16s and other aircraft for precision targeting, including in drone defense missions when paired with APKWS precision rockets
   • Counter-IED Technologies: The U.S. adopted Israeli technologies like Dragon Spike devices to counter Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) in Iraq
   • Counter-Tunnel Technology: Israel’s advanced systems for detecting and neutralizing tunnels, developed in response to threats from Gaza, have been adapted to help secure the U.S.-Mexico border, supported by U.S. legislation
   • F-35 Enhancements: Israel’s customized F-35I “Adir” variant, with unique sensors and electronic warfare suites, has provided insights and influenced upgrades for the broader U.S. F-35 fleet
   • AI on the Battlefield: Israeli advancements in AI-driven warfare, such as Rafael’s Fire Weaver battle management system and IAI’s Harop loitering munitions, are shaping U.S. programs in areas like drone defense and autonomous vehicles A 2021 Pentagon study identified 13 out of 21 critical military technologies where Israel can make meaningful contributions to American defenseThis flow of innovation directly refutes the notion that Israel does not contribute to U.S. security.

3. Israeli Military Equipment Employed by the U.S.:

   Beyond co-developed systems, the U.S. military has procured and utilized a range of Israeli-developed equipment 4:

   • AGM-142 Have Nap “Popeye” missile 4
   • SIMON breach grenade 4
   • Samson Remote Controlled Weapon Station 4
   • Uzi submachine gun (formerly by U.S. Secret Service) 4
   • ADM-141 TALD (Improved Tactical Air Launched Decoy) 4 The U.S. continues to fund R&D for Israeli weapon systems like the Tactical High Energy Laser and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) This demonstrates a clear U.S. interest in leveraging Israeli defense innovation.

B. Joint Military Exercises and Training

The U.S. and Israel conduct frequent and complex joint military exercises across air, land, sea, space, and cyber domains. These exercises are critical for enhancing interoperability, readiness, and tactical proficiency for both forces

• Key Exercises:
  • Juniper Cobra/Oak/Falcon Series: These are major biennial exercises. Juniper Oak in January 2023 was the largest U.S.-Israel partnered exercise in history, involving fifth-generation fighter assets, the USS George H.W. Bush Carrier Strike Group, over 140 aircraft, roughly 6,400 U.S. troops, and 1,500 Israeli troops. The exercise included live fire with over 180,000 pounds of munitions, long-range strikes, suppression of enemy air defenses, and maritime operationsThese exercises test and improve combined operational capabilities against a range of threats
  • Naval Exercises: Examples include Intrinsic Defender 2023. Notably, in 2022, Israel joined a U.S.-led naval exercise alongside Saudi Arabia and Oman, showcasing expanding regional security cooperation facilitated by the U.S.
  • Air Force Training: Regular joint drills, including Red Flag exercises in the U.S. and specific anti-aircraft or F-35 focused training
  • Specialized Drills: Exercises focusing on missile defense, special operations, cybersecurity, and even preparing for potential conflicts like a war in Lebanon
• Benefits for U.S. Forces:
  • Enhanced Interoperability: Operating alongside the IDF, a highly experienced and technologically advanced military, allows U.S. forces to refine joint tactics, techniques, and procedures. This is crucial for any potential coalition operations in the Middle East or elsewhere.
  • Access to Israeli Expertise and Innovation: The IDF often operates on the cutting edge of military innovation due to its unique security environment. Joint exercises provide U.S. forces firsthand exposure to these innovations and the IDF’s operational experience, particularly in areas like urban warfare, counter-terrorism, and countering drone threats. Lessons learned from Israel’s conflicts, such as those in Gaza, have been studied by the U.S. military, highlighting the value of armor, active protection systems, and the challenges of urban combat
  • Realistic Training Environment: Israel’s strategic location offers a unique and realistic training environment, allowing U.S. forces to operate in conditions similar to those they might face in actual deployments.
  • Testing New Concepts and Technologies: Joint exercises serve as a proving ground for new U.S. and Israeli technologies and operational concepts in a combined setting.
  • Strengthening Regional Security Architecture: Exercises that include other regional partners, facilitated by U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) since Israel’s inclusion in its Area of Responsibility (AOR), help build a more integrated and capable regional security network aligned with U.S. interests

The consistent emphasis on expanding the scope and frequency of these exercises 1 underscores their perceived value to both militaries.

C. Logistical Support and Prepositioning

Israel provides vital logistical support for U.S. military operations in the region.

• Port of Haifa: The Port of Haifa serves as a key logistical hub and port of call for the U.S. Sixth Fleet in the Eastern Mediterranean, hosting around 40 U.S. Navy ships annually. It is praised for cost-efficiency and operational access, providing maintenance and support services
• War Reserves Stock Allies-Israel (WRSA-I): This U.S.-owned stockpile of military equipment and munitions, located in Israel and now managed by CENTCOM, is one of the largest U.S. war reserves globally Initially valued at $100 million, its authorized value has grown to $1.8 billion The stockpile includes ammunition, smart bombs, missiles, military vehicles, and a 500-bed military hospital across six sites While Israel can request access in emergencies (subject to U.S. approval), WRSA-I is primarily for U.S. use, enabling rapid deployment of assets in the region Israel covers storage and maintenance costs Significantly, munitions from WRSA-I have also been transferred for U.S. military aid to Ukraine, demonstrating its broader strategic utility to the U.S. beyond direct Israeli needs
• Joint Maintenance and Logistics Planning: The U.S. and Israel engage in joint maintenance and logistics planning to ensure streamlined supply-chain operations and rapid deployment of forces and resources Over 300 U.S. DoD personnel travel to Israel monthly to support joint operations and coordination

This logistical infrastructure and cooperation provide the U.S. with enhanced strategic flexibility and rapid response capabilities in a critical region, directly serving U.S. national security interests. The willingness of Israel to host these U.S. assets and facilitate their use underscores its role as a dependable strategic partner.

The depth and breadth of military cooperation, ranging from the co-development of world-leading missile defense systems to the adoption of Israeli battlefield lifesaving innovations by individual U.S. soldiers, and the provision of critical logistical support, offer substantial, tangible benefits to the United States. This symbiotic relationship enhances U.S. military capabilities, provides strategic advantages, and contributes directly to the safety and effectiveness of American service members.

III. The Intelligence Nexus: Sharing, Cooperation, and Counter-Terrorism

Intelligence cooperation is a cornerstone of the U.S.-Israel strategic alliance, providing critical benefits to American national security, particularly in the realm of counter-terrorism and regional threat assessment. This collaboration involves robust intelligence sharing, joint counter-terrorism measures, and leveraging Israel’s unique regional insights and technological capabilities.

A. Intelligence Sharing on Regional Threats and Terrorism

The exchange of intelligence between the U.S. and Israel is extensive and has proven vital in protecting U.S. interests and personnel.

• Real-time Data Exchange: Existing frameworks are designed to improve real-time data exchange and operational coordination between the two countries This allows for timely responses to emerging threats.
• Protecting U.S. Troops: Real-time intelligence from Israel has directly protected U.S. troops. A notable example is the preemption of an October 2021 Iranian drone attack on a U.S. base in Syria, thanks to Israeli warnings
• Countering ISIS: Since at least 2014, Israel has provided key intelligence on ISIS operatives, leveraging its surveillance drones over the Middle East This information has been valuable to U.S.-led coalition efforts against the terrorist group.
• Insights into Hostile Actors: Israel’s proximity to and engagement with regional threats, such as Iran and its proxies like Hezbollah and Hamas, provide it with unique intelligence that is shared with the U.S. This includes information on terrorist operational methods, planned attacks, weapon acquisitions, and innovation techniques
• Broader Regional Stability: Israel’s intelligence capabilities contribute to a broader understanding of regional dynamics, which is essential for U.S. policymaking and strategic planning in the Middle East

The value of this intelligence sharing is underscored by the U.S. view of Israel as an invaluable security partner with advanced intelligence expertise crucial for confronting regional threats and safeguarding American interests

B. Joint Counter-Terrorism Efforts

Beyond passive intelligence sharing, the U.S. and Israel actively collaborate on counter-terrorism measures.

• Joint Anti-Terrorism Working Group: This group, along with a direct Pentagon-IDF hotline, streamlines emergency coordination and facilitates joint efforts against terrorism
• Targeting Shared Threats: Cooperative efforts, including joint training exercises, are designed to target groups that pose threats to both nations, such as Hezbollah and Hamas
• Adapting Counter-Terror Strategies: U.S. security personnel, including those protecting Jewish communities, have trained alongside Israeli police to adapt Israeli counter-terrorism strategies for domestic use in the U.S.
• European Cooperation Example (Historical Context): Historically, Israeli intelligence agencies like Mossad and Shin Bet partnered with European intelligence communities (e.g., the Club de Berne) starting in the 1970s to combat Palestinian terrorist threats in Europe. This involved creating shared databases of terrorist suspects (the “terrorist album”) and daily messaging (via Kilowatt) to track organizations, operational methods, and planned attacks While this example primarily involves European partners, it illustrates the longstanding Israeli practice of international intelligence cooperation against terrorism, a model that informs its cooperation with the U.S. An instance in December 1972 involved MI5 alerting partners, including Israel, to an arrested individual planning an attack in Stockholm; subsequent information exchange between MI5 and Israeli intelligence (Mossad and Shin Bet) provided crucial details about the operative and his connections to Fatah and Black SeptemberSuch exchanges, even if not directly involving U.S. soil, contribute to a global understanding of terrorist networks and methodologies, indirectly benefiting U.S. security.

C. Cybersecurity Cooperation

In the modern threat landscape, cybersecurity is paramount, and U.S.-Israel cooperation in this domain is rapidly expanding.

• U.S.-Israel Cyber Working Group: Established in 2017, this working group aims to address cyber threats and enhance shared resilience It fosters a whole-of-government approach to pressing cyber challenges
• Bilateral MoU on Cybersecurity Cooperation: Finalized in 2022 between the U.S. Department of the Treasury and the Israeli Ministry of Finance, this MoU builds on a partnership to protect critical infrastructure in the financial sector. It includes information sharing on cyber incidents and threats, staff training, study visits, and cross-border cybersecurity exercises
• Combating Ransomware: This partnership has already resulted in the sharing of real-time cyber threat data to prevent the spread of ransomware and other cyberattacks from impacting the U.S. financial sector
• Israeli Cyber Expertise: Israel is recognized as a global leader in cybersecurity, with a world-class cyber ecosystem and significant global investment in its cybersecurity industry This expertise is a valuable asset in joint U.S.-Israel efforts. Israeli battlefield-tested tools for signals intelligence and cyber defense, many developed by veterans of elite units like Unit 8200, are increasingly integrated into U.S. intelligence efforts
• U.S.-Israel Cybersecurity Cooperation Enhancement Act: This legislation aims to create a grant program ($30 million over five years) to promote joint R&D in cybersecurity between U.S. and Israeli entities, focusing on identifying, protecting against, detecting, responding to, and recovering from cyber threats The program is managed by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS)
• BIRD Cyber Program: A binational initiative under the BIRD Foundation, this program has allocated grants (e.g., $1.5 million+) for joint U.S.-Israeli projects like real-time airport risk assessment systems and data analytics platforms, aiming to enhance the cyber resilience of critical infrastructure

The close intelligence relationship provides the United States with a significant strategic advantage. Access to Israel’s sophisticated intelligence apparatus, its deep understanding of regional adversaries, and its cutting-edge cyber capabilities directly contribute to the protection of American lives, assets, and critical infrastructure. The proactive nature of this cooperation, exemplified by preemptive warnings and joint task forces, demonstrates a partnership that actively works to neutralize threats before they can materialize on U.S. soil or against U.S. interests abroad. This level of intelligence sharing is a clear and substantial benefit Israel provides to the United States.

IV. Innovation and Advancement: Technological and Scientific Collaboration Beyond Defense

Beyond the critical defense and intelligence sectors, the U.S.-Israel partnership fosters extensive collaboration in civilian technology and science, yielding innovations that directly benefit American industries, consumers, and public well-being. This cooperation is often institutionalized through unique binational foundations and results in the adoption of Israeli technologies in the U.S. across diverse fields such as cybersecurity, medicine, agriculture, and water management.

A. Binational Foundations: Catalysts for Joint Innovation

Several binational foundations serve as enduring mechanisms for promoting and funding joint U.S.-Israeli research and development, creating a pipeline of innovation with tangible economic impacts.

• The Israel-U.S. Binational Industrial Research and Development (BIRD) Foundation: Established in 1977, BIRD’s mission is to stimulate, promote, and support industrial R&D cooperation between U.S. and Israeli companies across various technology sectors BIRD provides up to 50% of a project’s budget (up to $1.5 million per project) on a risk-sharing basis, requiring repayment only if the project generates revenue, and takes no equity or IP rights
  • Impact: Since its inception, BIRD has approved investments in over 1,000 projects, which have yielded direct and indirect revenues exceeding $10 billion Over $370 million in grants have been approved for projects involving companies in 37 U.S. states and the District of Columbia An October 2020 impact study estimated that BIRD projects (2002-2018) generated $5.5 billion in funds raised by participating companies, created 8,500-10,000 jobs, and resulted in $750-900 million in sales from a net investment of ~$175 million
  • Specialized Programs: BIRD also manages targeted programs like BIRD Energy (renewable energy and energy efficiency, with $42 million in U.S.-Israeli government investment matched by $55 million private funding for 55 projects since 2009), BIRD Homeland Security (advanced technologies for first responders and critical infrastructure), and BIRD Cyber (enhancing cyber resilience of critical infrastructure) It was also selected to manage the U.S.-Israel Center of Excellence for Energy, Engineering and Water Technology
  • Examples of BIRD Projects with U.S. Impact:
    • Compentex (Israel) & ChemImage Corporation (Pittsburgh, PA): Developing NurseSpace, a portable AI-based robot for automated medication management in healthcare
    • Extreme Simulations (Israel) & SynDaver Labs (Tampa, FL): Developing a modular manikin for healthcare training for life-threatening events
    • Overwolf (Israel) & Kidas, Inc. (Philadelphia, PA): Developing voice and text chat protection in gaming
    • NovellusDx (Israel, now Fore Biotherapeutics) & Christiana Care’s Gene Editing Institute (Delaware): Identifying genetic mechanisms for cancer progression, leading to new drug development
    • Blue White Robotics (Israel) & Easy Aerial (US): Developed Soteria, a platform for single-operator control of multiple drones for homeland security applications The BIRD model demonstrates a unique and successful framework for leveraging Israeli innovation for the benefit of U.S. industries, creating jobs, and bringing new products to the American market. The foundation’s structure ensures that U.S. companies are integral partners, directly benefiting from the R&D process and subsequent commercialization.
• The U.S.-Israel Binational Science Foundation (BSF): Established in 1972, the BSF promotes academic relations and scientific cooperation by funding collaborative research projects across a wide range of scientific disciplines It has awarded over $1 billion in grants to more than 5,500 research projects, funded by an endowment from both countries This fosters basic research that can lead to future technological breakthroughs benefiting both nations.
• The U.S.-Israel Binational Agricultural Research and Development Fund (BARD): Established in 1977, BARD is a competitive funding program supporting collaborative U.S.-Israeli agricultural research in areas of mutual interest It has invested over $315 million in more than 1,300 research projectsThese projects address challenges in food security, sustainable agriculture, and resource management, with findings applicable to U.S. agriculture.

These foundations represent a long-term, institutionalized commitment to joint innovation. Their focus on collaboration ensures that benefits flow in both directions, with U.S. entities gaining access to Israeli ingenuity and Israeli researchers and companies gaining access to U.S. expertise and markets. This structured approach directly counters the idea that Israel does not contribute to U.S. advancement.

B. Cybersecurity (Civilian and Commercial Applications)

Beyond military and intelligence applications, Israeli cybersecurity innovations are prominent in the U.S. commercial sector, protecting businesses and critical infrastructure.

• National Strategy Alignment: Israel’s National Cybersecurity Strategy for 2025-2028 emphasizes international collaboration and public-private partnerships, creating opportunities for U.S. cybersecurity firms to engage in protecting critical infrastructure (energy, transportation, healthcare) and serving SMEs
• U.S.-Israel Cybersecurity Cooperation Enhancement Act & BIRD Cyber: As mentioned previously, these initiatives fund joint U.S.-Israeli commercial cybersecurity ventures, such as real-time airport risk assessment systems and data analytics platforms, directly benefiting U.S. infrastructure protection
• Industry Leadership: Israeli firms like Check Point and CyberArk are global leaders, and many Israeli cybersecurity companies have a significant presence in the U.S. market, providing solutions to American businesses Wiz, another Israeli company, offers a Cloud Native Application Protection Platform (CNAPP) adopted by U.S. businesses to secure cloud environments

C. Medical and Healthcare Technologies

Israel is a hub for medical innovation, with numerous technologies and pharmaceuticals developed or co-developed there being adopted in the U.S., improving patient outcomes and advancing healthcare.

• Legislative Support for Collaboration: The “MIRACLE Medical Technology Act” (introduced in the U.S. Congress, e.g., Jan 2025) aims to increase and facilitate close coordination between the U.S. and Israel on new health technologies, promote R&D, support innovation hubs, protect IP, enhance telemedicine, and establish a U.S.-Israel Health Care Collaboration Center This reflects a recognized U.S. interest in leveraging Israeli medical innovation. Health partnerships are a growing facet of U.S.-Israel trade ties, totaling $50 billion a year
• Notable Israeli Medical Innovations Used in the U.S.:
  • Copaxone: A groundbreaking immunomodulator drug for treating multiple sclerosis, developed at the Weizmann Institute of Science
  • PillCam (Given Imaging, now Medtronic): A swallowable camera for visualizing the gastrointestinal tract
  • ReWalk Exoskeleton (Lifeward): Enables paraplegic individuals to walk, used in U.S. rehabilitation centers
  • Flexible Stent (NIR Stent/EluNIR by Medinol): Widely used in cardiology
  • Azilect: A drug for Parkinson’s disease developed at the Technion and commercialized by Teva Pharmaceutical Industries
  • CartiHeal’s Agili-C: An FDA-approved cartilage regeneration implant for knees, acquired by UK-based Smith+Nephew with a strong U.S. market presence
  • TytoCare Home Smart Clinic: An FDA-cleared device allowing remote physical exams with AI-powered guidance, transforming telehealth in the U.S.
  • MDClone: A healthcare data analytics platform ensuring patient privacy, used by healthcare organizations in the U.S., Canada, and Israel
  • MeMed BV test: An FDA-cleared test to distinguish between bacterial and viral infections in 15 minutes
  • IceCure’s ProSense Cryoablation System: Minimally invasive treatment to destroy tumors by freezing, used in the U.S.
  • ENvue Feeding Tube Placement System (ENvizion Medical): Used in U.S. hospitals Many of these innovations originate from Israeli academic institutions and are then commercialized by Israeli or international companies with significant U.S. operations or partnerships.

D. Agricultural Technology (AgTech)

Despite its arid climate, Israel is a world leader in agricultural technology, and its innovations have a significant impact on U.S. agriculture, promoting efficiency and sustainability.

• Drip Irrigation (Netafim): Pioneered by Israel’s Netafim in 1965, drip irrigation technology has revolutionized water efficiency in agriculture globally and is widely adopted in the U.S., saving water and increasing crop yields This technology can use 70% less water and dramatically increase crop harvests by 150% compared to traditional methods
• Precision Agriculture: Israeli startups use drones and sensors to assess crop performance, helping U.S. farmers optimize land use and resource management. An Israeli software system sending critical data to farmers’ phones for soil monitoring has become popular on large U.S. farms, leading the Tel Aviv-based company to open a San Francisco office
• Biological Pest Control (BioBee): BioBee’s biological control agents are used in over 50 countries, including the U.S., to manage pests in various crops, reducing reliance on chemical pesticides
• Improved Food Storage: Israeli scientists are developing technologies for improved food storage, used in over 100 countries, which helps reduce post-harvest losses—a concern for U.S. agriculture as well
• U.S.-Israel Collaboration: Clemson University is partnering with Israeli universities to advance agriculture, learning from Israel’s advancements in water conservation, sustainable farming, and crop resilience to benefit South Carolina and U.S. agriculture broadly The U.S. and Israel also work together on gene-editing technology for agriculture

E. Water Technology

Israel’s expertise in water desalination, reclamation, and management is world-renowned and increasingly relevant to water-scarce regions in the U.S.

• Desalination: Israeli company IDE Technologies is a global leader in desalination and helped build one of the world’s largest desalination plants in Carlsbad, San Diego, California, providing a significant new source of potable water for the drought-prone state
• Water from Air (Watergen): This pioneering Israeli company develops atmospheric water generators (AWGs) that create drinking water from air humidity. Watergen’s technology complies with EPA and Federal Drinking Water Standards and has been deployed in the U.S., including a partnership with Flint, Michigan, during its water crisis Their products are used in over 65 countries
• California-Israel Water Cooperation: A Memorandum of Understanding (2014) between California and Israel promotes cooperation on water and green technology solutions. A joint venture with Los Angeles’ Cleantech Incubator (LACI) aims to introduce Israeli water, energy, and agricultural tech companies to the California market to address drought Israel recycles about 86% of its water, compared to about 10% in California, highlighting the potential for U.S. learning

The vibrant technological and scientific exchange between the U.S. and Israel, often formalized through dedicated binational foundations and driven by Israel’s innovative ecosystem, provides substantial and ongoing benefits to the United States. These contributions enhance American industrial competitiveness, address critical domestic challenges in healthcare, agriculture, and resource management, and bring cutting-edge products and services to the U.S. market.

V. Engines of Growth: Economic Partnership and Mutual Prosperity

The economic relationship between the United States and Israel is robust and multifaceted, characterized by significant trade flows, substantial Israeli foreign direct investment (FDI) into the U.S., and a shared innovation ecosystem that fuels growth in both nations. This partnership, anchored by a pioneering free trade agreement, directly contributes to the U.S. economy through job creation, technological advancement, and increased commercial activity.

A. The U.S.-Israel Free Trade Agreement (FTA)

The U.S.-Israel Free Trade Agreement, which entered into force on September 1, 1985, holds the distinction of being the United States’ first FTA It has served as a durable foundation for expanding trade and investment between the two countries by systematically reducing barriers and promoting regulatory transparency

The impact of the FTA on trade volumes has been significant. By 2019, U.S. goods exports to Israel had increased by 538% since the agreement’s inception In 2024, total U.S. goods trade with Israel was estimated at $37.0 billion. Specifically, U.S. goods exports to Israel reached $14.8 billion, while U.S. goods imports from Israel totaled $22.2 billion. This resulted in a U.S. goods trade deficit with Israel of $7.4 billion in 2024.32 It is important to note that these figures represent trade in goods; the economic relationship also encompasses substantial trade in services and significant investment flows, which provide a more complete picture of the bilateral economic engagement.

The composition of trade highlights areas of complementary strength. Top U.S. exports to Israel include diamonds, machinery, agricultural products, aircraft, and optic and medical instruments. Conversely, top U.S. imports from Israel consist of diamonds, pharmaceutical products, machinery, optic and medical instruments, and agricultural products To facilitate ongoing economic cooperation and address emerging issues, the two countries convene a Joint Economic Development Group (JEDG) annually The U.S.-Israel Joint Committee (JC) serves as the central oversight body for the FTA, exploring collaborative efforts to enhance bilateral trade and investment and addressing specific trade impediments

The FTA’s pioneering status in 1985 set a precedent for future U.S. trade policy. Its enduring nature has fostered more than just an exchange of goods; it has cultivated deeper business-to-business relationships, encouraged supply chain integration, and established a climate of trust. This stable and predictable framework has been conducive to long-term economic partnerships, including substantial Israeli investment into the U.S. market and significant U.S. corporate engagement in Israel.

B. Israeli Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the U.S. and Economic Impact

Israeli companies are not merely exporting to the United States; they are actively investing in the U.S. economy, establishing operations, creating high-value jobs, and contributing to innovation within key American industries. This direct investment provides tangible economic benefits to the U.S.

As of 2023, the total stock of FDI from Israel to the United States (on an ultimate beneficial owner basis) was $22.4 billion The sectors attracting the highest number of announced Israeli FDI projects in the USA are:

1. Software & IT Services
2. Industrial Equipment
3. Medical Devices
4. Renewable Energy
5. Communications
6. Food & Beverages

A compelling case study of this impact is Florida. A 2024 report by the United States-Israel Business Alliance revealed that 429 Israeli-founded companies operate in Florida, directly employing 8,190 Floridians. When factoring in indirect and induced jobs through supply chains and employee spending, this figure triples to an estimated 26,510 local jobs. These companies generate $7.3 billion in gross economic output, contributing 0.46% to Florida’s gross state product. Notably, employees of these Israeli-founded firms earn, on average, 12% higher wages than the state average, indicating the creation of high-quality employment opportunities For example, in Orange County, Florida, average earnings at Israeli-founded firms were $96,600, 51% above the county average

The vibrancy of Israel’s tech sector, which secured over $12 billion in private funding in 2024 alongside record M&A activity ($15.8 billion), fuels companies that subsequently invest and expand in the U.S.Leading U.S. venture capital firms like Andreessen Horowitz have significantly increased their investments in Israeli startups, becoming one of the most active foreign investors in Israel in 2024.36 Investment firms like Hamilton Lane have also demonstrated sustained confidence, investing $1.25 billion in Israeli venture capital and private equity funds over the past two decades, with nearly $250 million committed since October 7, 2023, focusing on sectors like AI, cybersecurity, and defense technologies where Israel is a global leaderThis inflow of U.S. capital into Israeli innovation often translates into a U.S. market presence for these firms, further contributing to the American economy.

The Israel Economic Mission to the East Coast, based in New York, actively promotes trade and investment, focusing on collaborations in sectors such as cybersecurity, fintech, AI, digital health, life sciences, proptech, consumer goods, retail tech, smart cities, clean energy, homeland security, software and IT, and water technology

The concentration of Israeli FDI in high-technology and high-value sectors signifies more than just job creation; it represents a transfer of Israeli technological know-how and innovative business models into the U.S. economy. This contributes to the development of America’s own innovation capacity and enhances the skills of the U.S. workforce, ultimately bolstering U.S. competitiveness. The resilience of these economic ties, with U.S. venture capital and private equity continuing to invest heavily in Israeli innovation even amidst geopolitical uncertainties 36, underscores the perceived strength and long-term value of this economic partnership. This sustained financial commitment fuels Israeli companies that often look to the U.S. for growth, market expansion, and talent acquisition, thereby embedding themselves within the American economic fabric.

Table 1: U.S.-Israel Bilateral Goods Trade Summary (2019-2024)

Source: U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) 2019 import figure estimated based on provided export and deficit. 2023 figures calculated based on 2024 data and provided differences.

Table 2: Israeli Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the U.S.: Key Sectors and Illustrative Impact

Sources:

The economic partnership between the U.S. and Israel, therefore, is a dynamic and evolving relationship that extends far beyond aid or simple trade. Israeli investment in the U.S., particularly in cutting-edge sectors, coupled with the robust framework of the FTA and ongoing technological collaboration, generates significant and tangible economic benefits for the United States.

VI. A United Front?: Diplomatic Cooperation and Strategic Alignment

Beyond the realms of military, intelligence, and economic collaboration, the U.S.-Israel relationship is characterized by a significant degree of diplomatic cooperation and strategic alignment on many global and regional issues. This alignment is evident in Israel’s role as a key strategic partner in a volatile region, its voting patterns in international forums, and its participation in U.S.-led diplomatic initiatives.

A. Israel as a Strategic Partner in a Volatile Region

For decades, the United States has viewed Israel as its most reliable partner in the Middle East This perception is rooted in several factors: Israel’s stable democratic governance in a region often marked by instability; its advanced military and intelligence capabilities; and its generally pro-Western orientation. Israel provides a strategic American foothold in the Middle East 9, serving as an invaluable security partner and a central pillar in a pro-American regional architecture designed to advance stability and counter hostile forces, notably Iran and various extremist groups

During the Cold War, Israel was seen as an important counterweight to Soviet influence in the region In the contemporary context, its strategic location, coupled with its sophisticated military and intelligence apparatus, makes it an indispensable ally for the United States in confronting diverse regional threats and safeguarding American interests This strategic value is a consistent theme in U.S. policy assessments and underpins much of the bilateral cooperation.

B. Analysis of Voting Patterns in International Forums (e.g., UN)

While the United States frequently uses its diplomatic influence, including its veto power in the UN Security Council, to shield Israel from resolutions it deems biased or counterproductive (having done so 42 times against resolutions condemning Israel out of 83 total U.S. vetoes as of early 2022 9), this support is not unreciprocated in the broader diplomatic arena.

An analysis of voting patterns in the UN General Assembly (UNGA) reveals a striking level of alignment between the U.S. and Israel on a wide array of global issues. In 2022, Israel exhibited the highest voting coincidence with the United States among all 192 other UN member states, at 91% This remarkable alignment occurred in a context where both the U.S. and Israel voted against 53% of all voted UNGA resolutions, the highest proportion of “no” votes among all member states Furthermore, on six specific votes in 2022, the United States found itself in near isolation, joined in its position only by Israel

This high degree of voting coincidence is particularly noteworthy because, while resolutions specifically targeting Israel (which the U.S. often opposes alongside Israel) account for approximately 15% of voted resolutions 39, the 91% alignment figure encompasses all contested resolutions. This indicates a profound and broad agreement on a diverse spectrum of international topics beyond the immediate Israeli-Palestinian conflict, likely reflecting the shared democratic values and common strategic outlooks previously discussed. This makes Israel a uniquely reliable diplomatic partner for the U.S. in multilateral forums where American positions often face significant opposition. While U.S. diplomatic support for Israel on conflict-specific issues, such as settlements, can lead to perceptions of the U.S. as an outlier among some Western democracies 40, Israel’s reciprocal support for U.S. positions on a wider range of global matters is a significant, though often less publicized, facet of the alliance.

C. Collaboration in U.S.-led Diplomatic Initiatives

Israel has actively participated in and supported several U.S.-led or U.S.-backed diplomatic initiatives aimed at reshaping the regional landscape, promoting shared values, and countering common threats.

• The Abraham Accords: Facilitated by the United States, the normalization agreements between Israel and the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Sudan, and Morocco represent a significant diplomatic achievement for both Israel and the U.S. These accords align with long-standing U.S. goals of fostering regional stability, creating a more integrated and pro-American regional architecture, countering Iranian influence, and opening avenues for economic cooperation Israel’s willingness to engage in these normalization processes was an essential component of this U.S.-led strategic initiative, demonstrating its commitment to a U.S. vision for the region.
• International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA): The United States warmly welcomed Israel’s assumption of the IHRA presidency (commencing March 2025). The U.S. actively partners with Israel within IHRA to defend the historical accuracy of the Holocaust, combat Holocaust denial and distortion, and fight antisemitism globally. This includes joint promotion of the IHRA’s working definition of antisemitism, which the U.S. champions as a cornerstone of its global guidelines for countering antisemitism This collaboration underscores a shared commitment to fundamental human rights values and historical truth.
• I2U2 Initiative: Both the United States and Israel are participants in the I2U2 group, alongside India and the United Arab Emirates. This initiative aims to advance cooperation in economic and strategic infrastructure projects, reflecting a shared interest in promoting regional connectivity and development
• Regional Security Cooperation: Israel’s cooperation with Jordan, often coordinated with the United States, in addressing regional security threats, such as the joint effort in downing Iranian missiles and drones in April 2024, exemplifies practical strategic alignment Such trilateral coordination, including intelligence sharing, enhances regional security in line with U.S. objectives.
• Historical Support: During the Cold War, Israel provided support for U.S. counterinsurgency efforts and regional pacification in various global locations where direct U.S. involvement was politically sensitive or constrained This historical precedent illustrates Israel’s capacity and willingness to act as a discreet but effective partner in advancing shared security interests.

Israel’s active engagement in these U.S.-supported initiatives demonstrates an alignment that extends beyond bilateral concerns into the broader international arena. This participation helps to amplify U.S. diplomatic efforts, build coalitions, and promote a regional order conducive to American interests. The ability of Israel to act as a capable and, at times, discreet partner in sensitive security or diplomatic contexts provides an additional layer of strategic value to the United States.

The diplomatic dimension of the U.S.-Israel relationship, therefore, is not a one-way street. While the U.S. provides substantial diplomatic backing for Israel, particularly at the UN, Israel reciprocates with a high degree of alignment on global issues and active participation in U.S.-led strategic initiatives, reinforcing its role as a significant and reliable ally.

VII. Fact-Checking Controversial Claims: Israel, the Obama Administration, and Al Qaeda in Syria

A specific assertion has been made that Israel “help[ed] Obama back al Qaeda in Syria.” An examination of U.S. and Israeli policies during the Syrian Civil War under the Obama administration (2009-2017) is necessary to assess this claim against available evidence.

A. U.S. Policy in Syria under the Obama Administration

The Obama administration’s policy towards the Syrian Civil War, which began with anti-government protests in March 2011, was complex and evolved over time.

• Initially, in August 2011, President Obama called on Syrian President Bashar al-Assad to step downThe U.S. expressed support for the broader “Syrian opposition”
• Assistance to Syrian opposition groups was a subject of considerable debate. Non-lethal assistance to “vetted Syrian opposition groups” was authorized in 2013.44 In 2014, the Obama administration sought authority and funding for lethal support to vetted Syrians, initially to defend against the Assad regime. However, the rapid advance of the Islamic State (ISIS or ISIL) refocused these efforts towards counter-terrorism Congress ultimately authorized a Department of Defense-led train-and-equip program for select Syrian forces to combat terrorist groups, including ISIS and Al Qaeda, and to promote a negotiated settlement
• The primary U.S. military intervention involved deploying forces in 2015 to counter ISIS and train local partner forces, most notably the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF)
• A key aspect of Obama’s approach was to avoid deep U.S. military entanglement or occupation in Syria
• Crucially, the U.S. actively targeted Al Qaeda in Syria. President Obama stated, “We also continue to intensify our efforts against al Qaida in Syria, which — no matter what name it calls itself — cannot be allowed to maintain a safe haven to train and plot attacks against us” Claims that the Obama administration “founded ISIS” 48 or deliberately backed Al Qaeda are not supported by mainstream analyses of U.S. policy. The administration’s strategy, while criticized for its effectiveness and sometimes contradictory outcomes in a chaotic multi-sided conflict, was aimed at degrading both the Assad regime (particularly in the earlier phases) and extremist Salafi-jihadist groups like ISIS and Al Qaeda President Obama’s “JV team” comments in January 2014, which he later clarified were not specifically or solely about ISIS but about a range of regional terrorist groups engaged in local power struggles rather than posing an immediate homeland threat like Bin Laden’s Al Qaeda, were a misjudgment of ISIS’s potential but not an endorsement of Al Qaeda

B. Israeli Policy and Actions in the Syrian Civil War

Israel’s policy during the Syrian Civil War was primarily driven by its own national security imperatives, focusing on threats emanating from or transiting through Syria.

• Israel largely maintained a position of neutrality regarding the internal power struggle between the Assad regime and the diverse array of rebel factions
• Israel’s principal strategic concerns were:
  1. Preventing Iranian military entrenchment in Syria
  2. Stopping the transfer of advanced weaponry, particularly precision-guided missiles, from Iran through Syria to Hezbollah in Lebanon
  3. Maintaining stability and security along its border on the Golan Heights and preventing hostile groups from establishing bases there
• To address these concerns, Israel conducted numerous airstrikes against Iranian assets, IRGC formations, pro-Iranian militias, weapons convoys, and arms production facilities within Syria throughout the conflict, starting around 2013.50
• During the Obama administration, Al Qaeda’s Syrian affiliate, Jabhat al-Nusra (which later rebranded as Hayat Tahrir al-Sham or HTS and formally broke with Al Qaeda in 2016 53), established a significant presence along Israel’s northeastern frontier in the Golan Heights
• There were reports and analyses suggesting a degree of tacit, localized understanding or limited interaction between Israel and some non-ISIS Syrian rebel groups near the Golan border. Ehud Yaari of The Washington Institute noted in 2014 that Israel, Jordan, and these local militias shared an interest in preventing a full jihadist (specifically ISIS) takeover of the southern border region or a recapture by the Syrian army He stated, “One would not be incorrect in assuming that Israel has a system of coordination and cooperation with at least some rebel militias” for border security purposes
• Israel also provided significant humanitarian aid, treating over 800 wounded Syrians in Israeli hospitals, including some rebel commanders such as Colonel Abdullah al-Bashir of the Free Syrian Army (FSA) This was framed as a humanitarian effort and also potentially a way to build goodwill with local populations and factions near its border.
• It is crucial to distinguish Jabhat al-Nusra/HTS from ISIS. While both are Salafi-jihadist groups, they became rivals, and HTS eventually focused on a more Syrian nationalist-Islamist agenda, clashing with both Al Qaeda remnants and ISIS Israeli officials, even after the fall of Assad, remained highly suspicious of HTS leader Ahmed al-Sharaa (Abu Muhammad al-Jolani) due to his past Al Qaeda and ISIS affiliations Israel’s actions post-Assad (December 2024), involving massive airstrikes to prevent regime weapons, including chemical weapons, from falling into “extremist” hands, further indicate a primary concern with preventing any hostile group, including jihadists, from acquiring advanced capabilities

C. Assessment of the Claim

Based on the available research, there is no credible evidence to support the assertion that Israel strategically “helped Obama back Al Qaeda in Syria.”

1. Divergent Primary Objectives: The U.S. under Obama, while initially calling for Assad’s ouster, increasingly focused its direct military efforts on combating ISIS and Al Qaeda elements in SyriaIsrael’s primary focus was consistently on countering Iran and Hezbollah and securing its borderThese were distinct, though sometimes overlapping in complex ways, strategic priorities.
2. Nature of Israeli Engagement with Rebels: Any Israeli interaction with Syrian rebel groups appears to have been tactical, localized, and aimed at specific border security objectives: preventing more hostile elements (like ISIS or Iranian-backed militias) from gaining control of the immediate frontier, and for humanitarian purposes This is fundamentally different from a strategic alliance or “backing” Al Qaeda. Providing medical aid to wounded individuals, including some rebels, does not equate to endorsing their ideology or strategically supporting their broader campaigns.
3. Complexity of “Al Qaeda” in Syria: The label “Al Qaeda” in the Syrian context was not monolithic. Jabhat al-Nusra, the official affiliate, underwent transformations, eventually breaking with Al Qaeda’s central leadership U.S. policy specifically targeted Al Qaeda operatives. Israel’s concern was any militantly hostile group on its border, irrespective of its specific international affiliation, with a particular focus on those backed by Iran.
4. Lack of Supporting Evidence for Collusion: The research provides no indication of a coordinated U.S.-Israeli policy to support or empower Al Qaeda or its affiliates in Syria. Indeed, U.S. policy explicitly aimed to degrade such groups Israel’s actions were driven by its own direct security threats.
5. Misinterpretation of Complex Dynamics: The Syrian Civil War was a highly fluid and fragmented conflict. “Enemy of my enemy” calculations sometimes led to temporary, indirect, or localized alignments of convenience for various actors. For instance, groups fighting Assad might also be fighting ISIS. Israel’s limited engagement with certain non-ISIS, anti-Hezbollah factions near its border, aimed at preventing a more dangerous vacuum or the entrenchment of Iranian proxies, could be misconstrued by observers as support for all elements within those loose rebel coalitions. However, this falls far short of a deliberate policy to “back Al Qaeda” in concert with the U.S. The U.S. itself was struggling with the challenge of identifying and supporting “vetted moderate” opposition elements distinct from extremist groups.

The claim likely arises from an oversimplification or misrepresentation of the extremely complex dynamics of the Syrian Civil War, where multiple local and international actors pursued diverse and often conflicting agendas. Israel’s pragmatic, limited, and localized border management strategy, which may have involved some level of communication or humanitarian assistance to various non-ISIS, anti-Hezbollah rebel factions in the vicinity of the Golan Heights, was driven by its own immediate security concerns. This was distinct from, and not indicative of, a strategic alignment with the Obama administration to empower Al Qaeda. Such an interpretation ignores Israel’s primary strategic focus on countering Iranian influence and the U.S. administration’s own stated policy of combating Al Qaeda in Syria.

Conclusion

The assertion that Israel provides no benefits to the United States and fails to act as a genuine ally is contradicted by a substantial body of evidence spanning decades of multifaceted cooperation. This report has detailed numerous ways in which Israel has actively supported U.S. interests and contributed to American security and prosperity.

The U.S.-Israel alliance is anchored by foundational agreements and shared democratic values, creating a framework for deep and enduring military cooperation. This includes the joint development of critical defense technologies like the Iron Dome, David’s Sling, and Arrow missile defense systems, which enhance both Israeli and American security. Furthermore, the U.S. military has directly benefited from the adoption of Israeli battlefield innovations, such as the Trophy Active Protection System and the “Israeli Bandage,” which have improved the capabilities and safety of American forces. Extensive joint military exercises enhance interoperability and readiness, while Israeli logistical support, including the port of Haifa and the WRSA-I stockpile, provides the U.S. with significant strategic advantages in a critical region.

In the realm of intelligence, cooperation is robust and has yielded tangible benefits for U.S. national security. Israel has provided crucial intelligence that has protected American troops, contributed to counter-terrorism efforts against groups like ISIS, and offered vital insights into regional threats. Joint counter-terrorism initiatives and rapidly expanding cybersecurity collaboration further solidify this intelligence partnership, directly addressing contemporary threats to U.S. interests and infrastructure.

Beyond defense and intelligence, the technological and scientific collaboration between the two nations is extensive. Binational foundations like BIRD, BSF, and BARD have catalyzed billions of dollars in economic activity and thousands of jobs through joint R&D projects, with many innovations finding their way into the U.S. market. Israeli advancements in civilian cybersecurity, medicine, agricultural technology, and water technology have been widely adopted in the United States, offering solutions to pressing American challenges and contributing to public well-being.

The economic partnership is also significant. The U.S.-Israel Free Trade Agreement has facilitated a dramatic increase in bilateral trade. Moreover, substantial Israeli foreign direct investment in the U.S., particularly in high-tech sectors, creates high-quality American jobs and fosters innovation within the U.S. economy.

Diplomatically, Israel has demonstrated a high degree of alignment with U.S. positions on a wide array of global issues in international forums like the United Nations, often standing with the U.S. when many other nations do not. Israel has also actively participated in U.S.-led diplomatic initiatives, such as the Abraham Accords and the I2U2 group, which advance shared strategic objectives in the Middle East and beyond.

Regarding the specific claim that Israel helped the Obama administration “back Al Qaeda in Syria,” the available evidence does not support this assertion. U.S. policy under President Obama aimed to counter both the Assad regime and extremist groups like ISIS and Al Qaeda. Israel’s actions in Syria were primarily focused on preventing Iranian entrenchment, stopping weapons transfers to Hezbollah, and maintaining security on its Golan border. Any limited Israeli engagement with Syrian rebel groups appears to have been tactical, localized, and aimed at immediate border security concerns, rather than a strategic effort to empower Al Qaeda in conjunction with U.S. policy.

In summary, the U.S.-Israel relationship is a complex, deeply institutionalized, and fundamentally strategic partnership. While not devoid of occasional friction or differing perspectives, the alliance is characterized by extensive, multifaceted, and reciprocal cooperation that provides tangible and significant benefits to both nations. The evidence strongly indicates that Israel has been, and continues to be, a valuable ally to the United States, contributing in meaningful ways to American national security, technological leadership, and economic vitality. The notion that Israel “doesn’t do anything for us at all” is demonstrably false.