For decades, the United States has employed diplomatic, economic, and military strategies to encourage nations around the world to align their foreign policies with American and Israeli interests. These strategies have transcended party lines, with both Republican and Democratic administrations using incentives, pressure, and partnerships to influence global alliances.
In the Middle East, U.S. foreign policy has centered on bolstering Israel’s security and fostering regional cooperation. President Donald Trump’s administration played a pivotal role in this with the Abraham Accords, which facilitated normalization agreements between Israel and countries such as the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Morocco, and Sudan. These accords were driven by significant incentives: the UAE secured advanced military equipment like F-35 fighter jets, Morocco received U.S. recognition of its sovereignty over Western Sahara, and Sudan was removed from the state sponsors of terrorism list, opening doors to international aid. These agreements enhanced Israel’s diplomatic reach while cementing the U.S. as a key power broker in the region.
The groundwork for using diplomatic leverage can be traced back to President Jimmy Carter’s facilitation of the Camp David Accords in 1978. The peace treaty between Egypt and Israel brought an end to hostilities and led to significant U.S. military and economic aid for Egypt. This assistance established a model where American support was contingent on maintaining peace with Israel, a condition that has remained in place across administrations.
In Central and Eastern Europe, post-Cold War U.S. policy under Presidents Bill Clinton and George W. Bush encouraged newly independent states to align with Western interests, including support for Israel. NATO’s expansion incorporated countries that adopted pro-Western policies, which often included recognizing and cooperating with Israel. This alignment reinforced U.S. and Israeli strategic goals and positioned Israel as a partner in military and economic cooperation.
Latin America also experienced U.S. tactics aimed at securing alliances favorable to Israel. For instance, Colombia received extensive military aid from the U.S. to combat drug trafficking and insurgencies. This aid helped strengthen ties between Colombia and Israel, with Israel providing advanced military technology and training to Colombian forces. The resulting cooperation extended U.S. influence in the region and supported Israel’s defense sector.
Africa has seen direct and indirect U.S. influence aimed at fostering ties with Israel. In addition to Sudan’s case under Trump’s administration, broader efforts by both Republican and Democratic leaders included economic partnerships and peace initiatives. President Obama’s administration engaged with African nations through development programs that, while not explicitly tied to Israel, aligned with U.S. strategic goals supporting Israeli security.
In the Asia-Pacific region, U.S. defense agreements and economic partnerships encouraged pro-Western stances. The Philippines, through joint defense commitments and military aid from the U.S., supported U.S. positions in international forums, including those favoring Israel.
The European Union has also been influenced by U.S. diplomatic pressure to adopt pro-Israel policies. President Obama’s administration worked with European allies to support Israel in international arenas and counter efforts that could isolate it. This approach maintained Israel’s legitimacy and addressed security concerns while balancing complex regional issues.
The examples across different regions show that U.S. diplomatic tactics aimed at aligning nations with Israel’s interests have been a consistent element of foreign policy. These strategies have varied in their methods, ranging from direct agreements involving military aid and sanctions to broader diplomatic engagements. Regardless of the approach, both Republican and Democratic administrations have prioritized Israel’s position, integrating it into the fabric of U.S. foreign policy and extending its impact across the globe.
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