by Joel Lea-Wilson | Liberty University
Passages Alumn
Scarcely in the history of modern nations states has there ever been a closer relationship between two countries than that of the United States and Israel. While there is a plethora of reasons for this being the case, it is impossible to pinpoint any one reason why the United States has stood unequivocally with the Jewish State. The modern nation of Israel is a largely successful 68-year experiment in Middle Eastern democracy, and just like America, it has not only the right, but the responsibility to promote the blessings of liberty to its neighbors. One thing that makes Israel so special is its diversity. Muslims, Jews, Christians, Atheists, Druze, and others live comfortably together, united by the common ideals of freedom of religion, equal justice, and security. In a region of the planet so often defined by war, demagoguery, and religious violence, Israel is a true city on a hill. Unfortunately, Israel’s Western ideals aren’t welcomed by many of its regional neighbors, and the presence of a stable democracy in the region has the ironic effect of destabilizing the status quo. Israel is by no means perfect, but as long as Israel exists, hope for a better future in the Middle East exists.
The closeness of the US-Israel relationship has had a curious effect on peace negotiations. On one hand, the backing of a superpower such as America gives Israel’s voice greater legitimacy. Conversely, many Islamic nations view Israel as pandering to US interests due to their friendship. Also, US aid has enabled Israel to protect its borders and have the upper hand in the ever-escalating battle of ideals. Radical Islamic terrorism is a global threat, but its epicenter is in the Middle East. US support for Israel is not only critical for Israel’s physical safety, but it also allows America to maintain a strategic edge ahead of extremist groups like Hezbollah and ISIS.
Although it seems unlikely that a nation of over 300 million can learn any lessons from a nation of 8 million, Israel has much to offer. For starters, America can learn from Israel’s example of doing more with less. Be it recycling water, or curing diseases, Israeli citizens have outdone the world in both sustainability and innovation. America is an unbelievably wealthy country, but unnecessarily wastes extraordinary amounts of resources. Also, America can learn from Israel’s respect for the family and community. Every Friday, most Israelis celebrate Shabbat and unplug from the hustle and bustle of modern life. America has become so fast pace that we forget to spend quality time with the people who are closest to us.
More than anything, it is imperative that American youth understand Israel to be the ally that it is. Anti-Semitism has crept on to our college campuses and into mainstream pop culture. My hope is that young people can have a truly informed view of Israel—the common issues that face us, and the ideals that unite us.