Why does the United States have a special fondness for Israel? Five key reasons behind it revealed

executive summary

This report provides an in-depth analysis of the unique relationship between the United States and Israel, revealing five key factors that support this unique bond: historical foundations and early diplomatic recognition, shared democratic values and cultural fit, strategic partnerships and common security interests, significant foreign aid and military support provided by the United States, and the prominent role of pro Israel advocacy groups and evangelical Christians. Meanwhile, the report critically examines and refutes the widespread anti Semitic conspiracy theory that wrongly attributes this relationship to "Jewish control" of American institutions, providing factual evidence and exploring the psychological and sociological roots behind such misinformation. The enduring connection between the two countries has been proven to be a product of complex interweaving geopolitical strategies, common ideals, and domestic political dynamics, rather than the result of conspiracy influences.

Introduction: Interpreting the background of the "special relationship" between the United States and Israel

The phrase 'love has a unique and enduring bond' aptly describes the bond between the United States and Israel, characterized by deep diplomatic, military, economic, and cultural ties that often go beyond typical international alliances. This report aims to analyze the underlying reasons behind this extraordinary relationship. The roots of US Israel relations can be traced back to Israel's establishment in 1948 and significant development during the Cold War and post Cold War periods. This analysis will delve into the five main pillars that support this relationship, followed by a critical examination of common misconceptions. This report aims to provide a comprehensive, evidence-based understanding of the US Israel relationship, distinguishing between factual drivers and conspiracy narratives.

Key reason one: Historical foundation and early diplomatic recognition

The United States' fondness for Israel began with its rapid recognition and sustained support at the beginning of its founding. On May 14, 1948, after David Ben Gurion declared Israel's independence, the United States immediately became the first country to recognize Israel as an independent state. The two countries officially established diplomatic relations in March 1949. The United States' support for establishing a Jewish national homeland in Palestine can be traced back to the Balfour Declaration of 1917. President Truman publicly expressed support for the establishment of a Jewish state in October 1946 and approved a proposal to admit 100000 displaced persons into Palestine. In November 1947, the United States supported United Nations Resolution 181 (also known as the Partition Resolution), which proposed dividing Palestine into a Jewish state and an Arab state.

Despite publicly expressing support, the US State Department initially had reservations about immediately recognizing Israel's existence. The State Council had suggested establishing a United Nations mandate, restricting Jewish immigration, and dividing Palestine into independent Jewish and Arab provinces, rather than an independent state. These reservations stem from concerns about the increasing influence of the Soviet Union in the Middle East and the possibility of Arab oil producing countries limiting their oil supply to the United States. The State Council is also concerned that after the partition resolution is passed, Arab countries may threaten to launch attacks, which could lead to a full-scale war in Palestine.

However, President Truman ultimately decided to recognize Israel, indicating that presidential privileges sometimes override bureaucratic caution. Although the State Council takes a pragmatic approach due to geopolitical considerations such as Soviet influence, oil supply risks, and regional conflicts, the President's decision may prioritize moral or ideological factors, such as the moral responsibility towards Jewish displaced persons after the Holocaust. In the context of complex geopolitical calculations, the president's will goes beyond the cautious approach of traditional foreign policy, setting a precedent for US Israel relations that are largely guided by values.

This early recognition, made in the face of high regional instability and strategic concerns within the United States, laid the foundation for a values based alliance in the relationship between the two countries. Under complex geopolitical considerations, this initial act of recognition established the narrative of the United States supporting self-determination and democratic ideals in the region. This early positioning enabled the two countries to develop their relationship with shared democratic values as the core pillar, distinguishing it from a purely transactional alliance.

Key Reason 2: Shared democratic values and cultural alignment

The special relationship between the United States and Israel is deeply rooted in the shared democratic values and cultural compatibility between the two countries. The two countries clearly share core values such as equality, freedom, democracy, diversity, and the rule of law. Israel is known as the 'only democratic country in the Middle East', with a sound civil society, democratic system, uninterrupted free and fair elections since 1949, and an independent judiciary. Freedom of speech and press are upheld, and citizens are free to criticize the government without fear of retaliation.

In terms of inclusiveness and rights, Israel advocates for the values of freedom, justice, and equality for all citizens, regardless of their political, economic, ethnic, or religious backgrounds. Unlike other countries in the region, women, Arab citizens, and LGBTQ+communities in Israel can openly hold elected positions.

This shared commitment to democratic principles reinforces America's moral values and strategic interests, becoming a key pillar of the US regional security framework. A strong US Israel relationship is considered the key to achieving true peace in the region, as it sends a signal to its opponents that Israel is invincible and lets Israel know that with the support of its allies and partners, it can take the risk of peace.

The emphasis on shared democratic values provides a strong ideological foundation for strategic and military alliances. This framework enables the two countries to engage in deeper cooperation and gain public support, portraying this relationship not only as a practical necessity but also as a moral mission. These values serve as ideological anchors, making strategic partnerships more resistant to political fluctuations and providing a moral framework for significant aid and military cooperation.

Israel is depicted as the "only free and democratic country in the Middle East," making it a key outpost of American values in non democratic regions. This narrative reinforces its strategic importance by aligning it with the broader foreign policy goals of promoting democracy and stability in the United States. The repeated emphasis on Israel as the "only democratic country" in the region has a dual purpose: it not only highlights a factual difference, but more importantly, it brings broader implications to US foreign policy. By forming an alliance with Israel, the United States is able to project its democratic values into a challenging geopolitical landscape, thereby strengthening its narrative of global leadership. This makes Israel not only an ally, but also a symbolic partner in a broader ideological struggle, which partially reflects the self-awareness of the United States.

Key Reason Three: Strategic Partnership and Common Security Interests

The core of the US Israel relationship lies in its profound strategic partnership and shared security interests. The two countries cooperate closely in intelligence and counter-terrorism. Israel has provided the United States with its extensive intelligence network, cutting-edge defense technology, and unparalleled experience in combating terrorist threats. Israel is on the front line in the Middle East against a common enemy, weakening their capabilities and striking before they reach the mainland of the United States. The areas of cooperation include cyber attack defense, emergency management, and anti tunneling technology. Israel's technology and experience benefit US airports, ports, and military forces. After the October 7, 2023 incident, Israel remains a key producer and provider of intelligence and counter-terrorism operations.

In terms of advanced defense technology and qualitative military advantage (QME), Israel has pioneered revolutionary technologies due to its unique threats, which the United States has applied to protect critical infrastructure, citizens, and military forces. The joint development of anti tunneling technology (such as its application on the US Mexico border) and Israel's multi-layered missile defense system (such as the "Iron Dome" initiative) are examples of shared technological progress. The cooperation also extends to drone confrontation, cybersecurity (joint exercises with the US Cyber Command), and next-generation artificial intelligence technology. The United States maintains Israel's policy of 'qualitative military advantage', including providing cutting-edge technology and sensitive intelligence.

In terms of regional stability and countering common threats, Israel's military strength and important geopolitical position pose a strong deterrent to regional actors opposing the United States. Israel has played a leading role in combating nuclear proliferation in the Middle East, particularly by destroying the Iraqi nuclear reactor in 1981 and the Syrian nuclear reactor in 2007. The US Israel relationship helps to counter common global threats, including Iran and its terrorist proxies, as well as the growing China Iran Russia axis. According to reports, Arab governments are engaging in secret security coordination with the United States and Israel to counter Iran and its allies.

This relationship has evolved from Israel primarily serving as a recipient of US aid to an 'indispensable security partner' and 'security producer'. This transformation indicates the maturity of the alliance, and Israel's domestic capabilities and intelligence contributions now provide tangible benefits to US national security, thereby creating a more reciprocal strategic value proposition. Early aid was mainly economic aid, followed by military loans, and then grants. However, later sources emphasized Israel as a "security producer" providing intelligence, technology, and counter-terrorism expertise. This is a clear trend and causal relationship: US investment (aid) enables Israel to develop capabilities that directly benefit US security interests, making the relationship between the two countries more symbiotic. This means that this' love has a unique preference 'is increasingly proven by concrete and shared strategic benefits, going beyond simple funding relationships.

The United States relies on Israel's unique regional intelligence and military capabilities to project power and counter threats in the complex Middle East, particularly in the Iran issue. This creates a profound interdependence, where Israel's security directly contributes to broader US strategic goals, and vice versa. The information provides a detailed description of Israel's role in countering Iran, nuclear proliferation, and providing intelligence. This is not only about Israel's security, but also about Israel as a key component of the US regional strategy. A broader meaning is that Israel acts as a multiplier for US interests in the volatile Middle East, reducing the direct need for large-scale US military deployments. This profound strategic consistency, where the security of one party directly affects the other, cultivates a deep sense of 'love for each other' based on common survival threats and mutual benefit.

Key reason four: A large amount of US foreign aid and military support

The United States' special preference for Israel is most directly reflected in its extensive and sustained foreign aid and military support. Since World War II, Israel has received more foreign aid from the United States than any other country, totaling $317.9 billion after inflation adjustment between 1951 and 2022.

Initially, between 1948 and 1958, the United States only provided economic assistance and was unwilling to distance itself from Arab oil producing countries by directly selling weapons. It was not until 1961 that President Kennedy authorized the first direct sale of weapons (Hawker missiles) to Israel, and military aid (in the form of loans) began in 1962. Aid increased significantly after the Six Day War in 1967 (with a 450% increase in 1968) and the October War in 1973 (with an 800% increase in military aid), as the United States viewed Israel as a means of countering Soviet influence. In 1981, all economic aid shifted from loans to grants, and by 1985, military aid had also completely transformed into grants and "exempt" loans.

The current aid commitments are reflected in a 10-year, $38 billion Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed in 2016, which commits to providing $3.3 billion in external military financing and $500 million annually for joint missile defense projects between fiscal years 2019 and 2028. In 2022, Israel received $3.3 billion in foreign aid, of which 99.7% was used for military purposes. This makes it the second largest recipient of US foreign aid after Ukraine. The military financing grants provided by the United States each year account for approximately 16% of Israel's military budget.

In terms of economic aid, Israel received $92.7 billion in US economic aid between 1951 and 2022, accounting for approximately 29% of its total aid. Economic aid has gradually decreased in the 21st century due to the rapid expansion and industrialization of Israel's high-tech industry. The current economic aid is mainly used for humanitarian assistance for the resettlement of Jewish immigrants, technology research and development, higher education, and healthcare.

The following table provides a detailed list of US aid to Israel, further illustrating the degree and composition of this' favoritism ':

Table 1: US Aid to Israel (1951-2022, Adjusted for Inflation)

This table quantifies the degree to which the United States has a special fondness for Israel, visually demonstrating the enormous scale and composition of aid.

Military aid significantly increased after 1967 and 1973, which is directly related to the United States' view of Israel as a strategic asset to counter Soviet influence in the Middle East. This indicates that although early aid may have had a certain humanitarian color, it quickly became the main tool of US foreign policy during the Cold War, consolidating this' special friendship 'within a broader strategic framework. The timeline of aid clearly reveals the causal relationship between major regional conflicts and the sharp increase in US military aid. The reason for this growth is that the United States sees Israel as a means of countering Soviet influence. This indicates that this' love obsession 'is not just emotional, but closely intertwined with the geopolitical goals of the United States, especially during the Cold War. This means that aid is a strategic investment that strengthens Israel's role as a regional agent or partner, thereby deepening the relationship between the two countries.

The transition from temporary assistance to multi-year memorandums of understanding (MOUs), as well as the conversion of loans into grants, marks the institutionalization and deepening of US commitments. This makes aid less affected by annual political fluctuations and ensures predictable long-term resource flows, further embedding this' special bond 'into the structure of US foreign policy. The evolution of aid from economic aid to military grants and the establishment of multi-year memorandums of understanding are important trends. This is not only about the amount of aid, but also about its structure. This means that the United States' commitment to Israel is deeply rooted and difficult to reverse or significantly change. This institutionalization forms a self reinforcing cycle: continuous aid promotes dependence and integration, which in turn strengthens the political will to continue aid, making "special bonds" a lasting policy feature.

Key reason five: Support from pro Israel advocacy groups and evangelical Christians

The United States' fondness for Israel is also significantly influenced by strong domestic advocacy groups and support from evangelical Christians.

Pro Israel lobbying groups, such as the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), play a crucial role in shaping US policy towards Israel. AIPAC claims to be a bipartisan organization with over 5 million members and 17 regional offices. It actively lobbies the US Congress, communicates on issues and legislation related to Israel, regularly meets with members of Congress, and holds events. In 2018, AIPAC spent $3.5 million on lobbying, which is a relatively large figure in the field of foreign policy lobbying. Its affiliated Political Action Committee (PAC) provides more direct funding to candidates than any other PAC, and in 2022, 98% of candidates supported by AIPAC won the election. AIPAC influences lawmakers through "key contacts" (matching members with common interests with members of Congress) and fully funded Israel tours for legislators.

Evangelical Christian Zionists play an equally important role. This movement saw significant development in the 20th century, with John Hagee founding the Christian Union for Israel (CUFI). CUFI has over 10 million members, which exceeds the combined total of AIPAC and the adult Jewish population in the United States. Evangelical support for Israel is rooted in the literal interpretation of the Abrahamic scriptures, particularly pre millennialism, which holds that Jewish return to the Holy Land is necessary for biblical prophecy and the return of Jesus Christ. The belief in Genesis 12:13, which says' I will bless him who blesses you, and I will curse him who curses you, 'has prompted evangelical believers to support and protect Israel. Evangelical believers in the United States are 50% more likely to oppose restrictions on US military aid to Israel, and twice as likely to believe that Israel's actions in Gaza are legitimate. Former presidents such as Ronald Reagan and George W. Bush, as well as current politicians such as Benjamin Netanyahu, have sought to gain favor with evangelical believers in the United States.

Although AIPAC and CUFI operate differently, their large membership base and lobbying efforts have jointly built a strong and multi-faceted domestic support group for Israel. This shows that the advocacy of Jewish Americans (AIPAC) has been magnified by a larger, religion driven Christian group (CUFI), which has jointly exerted significant influence on American policy. The political and financial influence of AIPAC is evident. However, the emergence of CUFI and its larger membership base reveal a potential pattern: pro Israel lobbying is not singular, but composed of diverse and powerful groups. This means that this' love for Israel 'is not driven solely by a single interest group, but by a broad, cross denominational alliance that exerts sustained pressure on policymakers to make pro Israel positions politically favorable to elected officials. This creates a causal cycle, where political support for Israel is strengthened by election considerations.

The motivation behind evangelical Christian Zionism is profound theology and eschatology, which differs from other pro Israel groups that are more pragmatic, security centric, or identity based. This highlights the complex interplay between the ideological and material interests driving US support, where religious beliefs can be transformed into powerful political advocacy, even in the face of humanitarian concerns such as the Gaza operation. The detailed explanation of evangelical motives (literal interpretation of the Bible, pre millennialism, Genesis 12:13) goes beyond simple political lobbying. It reveals the profound ideological foundation of an important component of pro Israel support. This means that this religious belief provides a highly resilient and often unwavering source of political pressure, which may override other policy considerations (such as human rights, international law, as demonstrated by the positions of certain appointed officials). The causal relationship between this theological belief and policy advocacy is a unique aspect of this' love preference '.

Refuting Misunderstandings: Conspiracy Theory of 'Jewish Control'

The understanding of the relationship between the United States and Israel must refute the erroneous conspiracy theories that attribute this "favoritism" to "Jewish control". These anti Semitic conspiracy theories wrongly depict Jews as a dangerous, powerful, or controlling group, often blaming them for social problems or global events.

These myths can be traced back to ancient and early Christianity, evolving in the Middle Ages and gaining new dissemination with the rise of modern nationalism. The forged text of the "Protocols of the Elders of Zion" (published in 1903) is the most important document for spreading conspiracy theories in the Jewish world, claiming that Jews secretly plan to rule the world by controlling politics, economy, finance, media, and education. This protocol was used by the Nazi leadership to defend the Holocaust and continues to be adapted to current events. Modern variants include "Zionist Occupation Government" (ZOG) and using "globalists" or "elites" (such as George Soros) as a symbol of anti Semitism.

The factual analysis of these claims of 'Jewish control' shows that they are seriously inconsistent with reality:

• demographic:Jews are a small minority in the United States (accounting for approximately 2% -2.4% of the total population, about 7.5 million -7.6 million people), and even fewer globally (about 0.2%).

• CEO of Fortune 500:The claim that 64% of CEOs of Fortune 500 companies are Jewish is incorrect. In 2020, white men held 85.8% of CEO positions in the Fortune 500, while white women held 6.8%.

• financeIn history, Jews have been significantly underrepresented in senior and middle management positions in major commercial banks in the United States (for example, in 1966, they accounted for only 1.3% of senior officials and 0.9% of middle managers, although their proportion was higher among college graduates and Ivy League graduates). Although some Jewish individuals hold important positions in today's financial industry, this does not equate to 'controlling' the global financial system.

• Media industry:Although Jewish individuals hold important positions in the American media industry, research shows that Jewish Americans "do not give high priority to Jewish affairs". Jewish characters account for only 2.2% of all characters in television programs. The idea that Jews control the media is an ancient saying.

• Politics:As of 2025, there are 10 Jewish senators and 25 Jewish representatives in the US Congress, which only accounts for a small portion of the total number of Congress members.

The following table visually compares these conspiracy theories with facts:

Table 2: Refuting the claim of "Jewish control": Comparison of factual representativeness and myth

This table clearly refutes false claims about 'Jewish control' by directly comparing myths and facts.

The continued existence of these conspiracy theories, despite numerous facts to refute them (such as data from Fortune 500 CEOs and historical financial industry representatives), is a key characteristic of conspiracy mentality. This means that presenting facts alone is often insufficient to refute these beliefs, as contradictory evidence can be interpreted as further proof of the existence of conspiracies. For example, there is a clear contradiction between the statement that "64% of Fortune 500 CEOs are Jewish" and the actual data (85.8% are white males). This contradiction highlights that this belief is not based on facts. A deeper understanding lies in why these easily refuted claims persist. The data explains its "self enclosed" nature and cognitive biases such as "proportional bias". This causal relationship (cognitive bias leading to the persistence of beliefs) means that to address these myths, it is not only necessary to correct the facts, but also to understand the psychological vulnerability that makes individuals susceptible to such narratives.

The use of the narrative of "Jewish control" in history and contemporary times is a common scapegoat mechanism. By attributing complex social issues, such as economic crises and political changes, to a Jewish group perceived as "omnipotent," these theories provide a simple scapegoat, thereby diverting attention from systemic problems or individual responsibility. This is particularly effective during periods of uncertainty or feeling out of control. The data always link the anti Semitic myth with the scapegoat behavior in history (Black Death, 9/11 Incident, COVID-19). This is a recurring theme. This understanding is that the narrative of 'Jewish control' serves as a universal explanation for 'all the bad things in society'. The causal relationship lies in the fact that 'political loss of control' and uncertainty prompt people to accept these theories, as they provide simplified explanations and objects of blame. The broader meaning is that the 'love hate' towards Israel is not only questioned, but also actively demonized through these conspiracy theories, leading to violence and discrimination in the real world.

Psychological and sociological factors have also contributed to the spread of conspiracy theories. Conspiracy theories rely on cognitive biases such as "proportionality bias" (believing that significant events must have significant causes) and "confirmation bias" (tending to seek information that supports existing beliefs). The level of belief in Jewish conspiracy theories is related to the perceived "personal loss of control" or "political loss of control" and uncertainty, rather than political uncertainty itself. They provide simplified explanations for complex problems and offer a sense of understanding and control in environments full of threats or uncertainties. Conspiracy theories have a "self enclosed" nature, which means that attempts to refute them logically are often interpreted as further evidence of the existence of conspiracies. The belief in conspiracy is related to distrust of authority, political cynicism, paranoia, and the desire to overthrow social order.

These anti Semitic beliefs, including conspiracy theories, led to systematic discrimination, persecution, and violence against Jews. In 2021, hate crimes targeting the Jewish community accounted for over half of the reported religious based hate crimes in the United States. In 2024, the number of anti Semitic incidents reached a record high of 9354, an increase of 344% over five years, with 58% of incidents containing elements related to Israel or Zionism. The perpetrators of hate crimes, such as the perpetrator of the "Tree of Life" synagogue shooting, are driven by anti Semitic conspiracy theories about Jewish power and influence over American institutions and policies. The Anti Defamation League (ADL) points out that the uniqueness of anti Semitism lies in its portrayal of Jews as both powerful and weak, and as the root of all social problems.

Conclusion: The Persistence and Evolution of the US Israel Relationship

The 'love affair' between the United States and Israel is a complex interplay between historical solidarity, shared democratic values, key strategic and security cooperation, significant and institutionalized financial aid, and strong domestic advocacy from Jewish and evangelical Christian communities.

However, the current trend of public opinion in the United States indicates that this relationship is facing challenges. The support rate of the American public for Israel's military operation in Gaza has significantly decreased. In July 2025, the support rate dropped to 32% and the opposition rate rose to 60%, the lowest level since November 2023. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's approval rating among the American public is also at a historic low (29% in favor, 52% against). There is a clear partisan divide in support of Israel's actions: Republicans generally maintain support (71% for military action, 67% for Netanyahu), while Democrats (8% for military action, 9% for Netanyahu) and independents (25% for military action, 19% for Netanyahu) have significantly lower support rates.

The age gap is also worth noting: the support rate for Israel's actions among young adults (under 35 years old) is much lower than that of older adults (over 55 years old), with the former about one tenth and the latter about half. One third of adults under the age of 30 mainly sympathize with the Palestinian people. Overall, the favorability towards Israel has dropped to its lowest point since 1978 at the Chicago Council on Global Affairs (with an average rating of 50/100), with a significant decrease in favorability among Democrats (from 52/100 in 2022 to 41/100).

These constantly changing public and partisan support, especially among young people and Democrats, pose significant challenges to the long-term stability of the 'special bond'. Israeli government officials are reportedly concerned about losing support from the American public. The durability of this relationship may depend on how policy makers manage these constantly changing public emotions, which may require adjustments to diplomatic rhetoric and policies.

suggestion

Suggestions for US policy makers:

• Recognize and resolve domestic differences:Recognize and actively respond to the growing domestic divisions among the American public regarding the Israel issue, particularly intergenerational and partisan differences.

• Redefine the strategic rationale:Clarify the strategic rationale for the US Israel relationship in a way that resonates with a broader and more diverse American public, emphasizing common security interests and shared values, while also paying attention to humanitarian issues.

• Actively counter conspiracy theories:Continue to actively counter anti Semitic conspiracy theories with factual information, but also consider adopting strategies to address potential psychological and sociological factors that make individuals susceptible to such misinformation.

Suggestions for further research:

• Longitudinal study:Conduct a longitudinal study on the evolving motivations behind the views of different population groups, especially the younger generation, on the US Israel relationship.

• Effectiveness of anti narrative strategy:Explore the effectiveness of various anti narrative strategies in combating anti Semitic conspiracy theories, going beyond simple factual refutation to address cognitive biases and feelings of loss of control.