Vision to Reality: The Reut Blog

The special relationship with the US is a major component of Israel’s National Security Strategy. However certain trends may reflect a subtle strategic shift that decision makers in Jerusalem should be aware of.

Obama’s ‘Realist’ Foreign Policy

Many in the Obama Administration subscribe to a realist position in international relations which argues that excessive closeness with Israel undermines America’s strategic interests in the Arab world. The potential direction of the Obama Administration – promoting a comprehensive peace agreement and engaging with Iran (and maybe even Hamas) – may set it at odds with the incoming Israeli government.

Less support in Congress, the Jewish Street and Liberal America

It seems Operation Cast Lead has weakened support for Israel among liberals in America. The Weekly Standard and Samuel Freedman both discuss how movements to divest from Israel are growing while other reports suggest changes in Congress and in Jewish public opinion (where J Street has taken away AIPAC’s monopoly) have altered support for Israel.

Lobby Discussion no Longer Taboo

The Walt – Mearsheimer thesis which raised the idea of an all powerful Israel lobby has gained traction following the controversy over the appointment and later cancellation of Charles Freedman’s position as National Intelligence Chief has brought the idea even more into the mainstream.

It is difficult to evaluate how the above trends might alter the relationship. However recent public criticism in the wake of reported Israeli plans to demolish homes in East Jerusalem may reflect a change that could signal the beginning of a shift.

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Is the Special Relationship being Eroded?