On the 16th of last month, in a significant development for U.S.-Israeli relations,
U.S. National Security Advisor
H.R. McMaster welcomed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to the White House for an in-depth discussion on various topics concerning
bilateral and regional issues.
This meeting marked their third encounter since President Trump assumed office, underscoring the administration’s commitment to deepening ties with its closest Middle Eastern ally. During this important
diplomatic encounter
, both leaders reaffirmed their shared commitment to countering common threats, such as Iran’s malign influence in the region, and reinforcing peace and stability through strengthened strategic partnership.
Agenda Items
The extensive talks between Netanyahu and McMaster touched upon a wide range of critical issues. One primary focus was the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict, with both leaders expressing their desire to restart peace negotiations between Israel and the Palestinian Authority. Another significant topic of discussion was the strategic partnership on defense and security, including continued U.S. support for Israel’s missile defense programs, such as the Iron Dome, and ongoing collaboration between U.S. and Israeli intelligence agencies.
Shared Threats: Iran
A critical aspect of their conversation revolved around the shared threat posed by Iran. Both leaders expressed grave concerns regarding Iran’s ongoing efforts to expand its influence in Syria, Lebanon, and Yemen, as well as its pursuit of nuclear capabilities. McMaster reiterated the administration’s strong stance against Iran and its destabilizing activities in the region. Netanyahu, in turn, thanked the U.S. for its unwavering support and emphasized Israel’s readiness to collaborate closely with Washington on this issue.
I. Background and Context
The U.S.–Israel relationship is a vital and complex partnership that has evolved over several decades. The connection between the two nations is multifaceted, encompassing strategic, security, and economic dimensions.
Overview of the U.S.-Israel relationship
Strategic Partnership: The United States and Israel share a strong strategic partnership based on mutual interests and values. The U.S. is one of Israel’s most significant allies, providing political, military, and diplomatic support. Israel, in turn, is a crucial ally for the U.S. in the Middle East, with their cooperation on issues such as intelligence sharing and counter-terrorism efforts being particularly noteworthy.
Security Cooperation: Security cooperation between the U.S. and Israel is robust. The two countries conduct regular military exercises, share intelligence, and collaborate on research and development of advanced military technology. This cooperation has been strengthened by the threat posed by common adversaries like Iran.
Economic Ties: Economic ties between the U.S. and Israel are substantial, with bilateral trade reaching approximately $50 billion in 2019. The U.S. is Israel’s largest trading partner, while Israeli investments in the U.S. have contributed significantly to the American economy.
Recent developments and challenges in U.S.-Israel relations
Iran Nuclear Deal Controversy: The U.S.’s withdrawal from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) in 2018, also known as the Iran nuclear deal, strained U.S.-Israel relations. Israel had opposed the agreement from the outset due to concerns over Iran’s potential nuclear weapons program and its regional aggression. The U.S.’s decision to withdraw from the deal was welcomed by Israel, but it also raised questions about the long-term stability of the alliance between the two countries.
Israeli Settlement Expansion in the West Bank: The ongoing expansion of Israeli settlements in the West Bank, which is considered occupied territory by most of the international community, has been a source of tension between the U.S. and Israel. The U.S.’s stance on Israeli settlements has shifted over time, with some administrations expressing concern over the expansion while others have been more supportive. The issue remains contentious, and the ongoing construction of settlements continues to fuel tensions in the region.
Tensions in Gaza and Jerusalem: The ongoing conflict between Israelis and Palestinians, particularly in the Gaza Strip and East Jerusalem, has been a persistent challenge for U.S.-Israel relations. Violence and instability in these areas have led to calls for increased American engagement and mediation efforts, but the issue remains complex and divisive. Recent events, such as clashes at the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in Jerusalem and rocket attacks from Gaza, have highlighted the need for a peaceful resolution to the conflict but also underscored the challenges in achieving one.
Preparation for the Meeting
U.S. National Security Advisor’s team preparation:
- Policy analysis and briefing documents: The U.S. National Security Advisor’s team engages in an extensive process of policy analysis to prepare for high-level diplomatic meetings. They compile and distribute detailed briefing documents, which provide background information on the key issues at hand, as well as potential strategies and policy options for discussion. These documents often include summaries of previous negotiations, analyses of the positions and interests of other parties involved, and evaluations of potential outcomes.
- Intelligence updates: The team also receives regular intelligence updates from various agencies, including the CIA and NSThese updates help them to anticipate potential challenges and threats that may arise during the meeting and inform their approach.
- Identification of key issues to be addressed: In advance of the meeting, the team identifies the most pressing issues that need to be addressed and prioritizes them based on their potential impact on U.S. national security interests.
Israeli Prime Minister’s team preparation:
- Preparation of briefing materials and agenda items: The Israeli Prime Minister’s team also spends significant time preparing for the meeting. They compile extensive briefing materials, which cover various aspects of the U.S.-Israel relationship and highlight key issues that require attention. These materials often include detailed agendas, background information on relevant policies and initiatives, and potential talking points for the Prime Minister.
- Consultation with relevant ministries and experts: The team consults extensively with other government agencies and policy experts to ensure that they have a comprehensive understanding of the issues at hand. This includes seeking input from the Foreign Ministry, Defense Ministry, Intelligence agencies, and other relevant stakeholders.
I Meeting Agenda and Discussion Points
Exchange of views on regional security issues
Iran and its nuclear program
– Discussion on the current status of Iran’s nuclear program
– U.S.: Explanation of the stance on the link
– Israel: Presentation of concerns and perspectives on the JCPOA
Syria
– U.S.: Update on efforts to counter Iran’s influence in Syria
– Israel: Discussion of military actions against Syrian targets and humanitarian situation
– Potential involvement in peace efforts to be explored
Lebanon
– Discussion on Hezbollah’s role in the region and Israeli concerns about Iranian influence
– Potential military action and diplomatic strategies to be considered
Discussion on bilateral cooperation and mutual interests
Defense and intelligence sharing
– Discussion on enhancing defense cooperation and intelligence exchange
Economic ties and energy cooperation
– Exploration of opportunities for economic partnership and energy cooperation
Technology transfer and innovation
– Discussion on potential collaborations in technology transfer and innovation
Addressing contentious issues between the U.S. and Israel
Settlement expansion in the West Bank
U.S.: Presentation of current stance on settlements
Israel: Justification for settlement construction and potential diplomatic and economic consequences to be discussed
Peace process with Palestinians
– U.S.: Proposal for renewed negotiations and diplomatic strategies
– Israel: Perspective on the peace process and Palestinian leadership to be shared
– Discussion on diplomatic tensions between the U.S. and Israel and strategies for improvement
Follow-up Actions and Outcomes
Joint statements, communiqués or press releases:
Following a successful summit between the U.S. and Israeli leadership, joint statements, communiqués, and press releases are issued to highlight the agreed-upon policy positions and areas of cooperation. These public declarations demonstrate the commitment to the partnership and reaffirm their shared values.
Future engagement and follow-up meetings:
Scheduled bilateral meetings between U.S. and Israeli officials:
In order to maintain momentum, scheduled bilateral meetings between U.S. and Israeli officials are arranged to discuss ongoing issues and forge new collaborations. These engagements provide a platform for continued dialogue and the strengthening of diplomatic ties.
Possible multilateral engagements with international partners:
To address global concerns and leverage collective efforts, possible multilateral engagements with the European Union, Arab League members, or other international partners are considered. Such collaborations offer an opportunity to tackle pressing issues and demonstrate a unified front on key initiatives.
Implementation of agreed-upon actions and initiatives:
Concrete steps to advance security cooperation, economic ties, or technology transfer:
The summit outcomes translate into concrete steps that aim to advance security cooperation, economic ties, or technology transfer. These actions serve as tangible evidence of the partnership’s commitment and progress towards a shared vision.
Continued diplomatic efforts to address contentious issues:
Despite agreements, contentious issues persist between the U.S. and Israel. To ensure ongoing dialogue and find solutions, diplomatic efforts are continued to address these challenges in a constructive manner, fostering mutual understanding and compromise.
