Between East and West

Abstract

Israel's political allegiance to the West is unquestioned. In the early years after 1948, however, the direction of Israel's foreign policy remained uncertain. In this important book Dr Bialer describes the internal debates within the Israeli political parties, and particularly the highly ideological labour movement, on the choices between pro-Soviet, pro-Western or non-aligned foreign policies. Making use of declassified documents, the author has carried out extensive research in the State Archives and other archives, and his account is based overwhelmingly on primary sources. This book examines the ideological components of these debates as well as the more material motivation factors, such as dependence on US aid, trade links with the Soviet bloc, the reliance on Czech arms supplies and the degree of freedom allowed to the Soviet and East European Jewish communities to emigrate to Israel. Dr Bialer concludes that there was no alternative strategy for Israel to adopt; the tilt towards the West was inevitable. This book provides valuable material for comparative research on the foreign policies and security relationships of small states in the international system immediately after the Second World War.

The relocation of the Israeli Foreign Ministry in 1953 and the Jerusalem question

“…The Soviet request to re-establish ties with Israel within months of breaking them off was greeted with distrust by Foreign Minister Sharett and much of the Israeli political establishment. 90 In April 1953, however, as the visit of the U.S. Secretary of State was nearing, contacts were initiated to restore ties with the Soviet Union. 91 During the talks, the Soviets demanded a pledge from Israel that it would not join the bloc that was forming against them.…”

“…Israel found a formula that satisfied the Soviets, promising not to align itself with parties organizing for aggressive purposes. 92 Despite the complicated relationship between the countries, the Soviet Union's stance on Jerusalem in 1949e1953 was perceived as positive. This was based on public statements by Soviet diplomats as well as actions.…”

Israel Between East and West, 1948–56

“…In other words, Soviet aid was related to Israel's foreign-policy orientation to a greater degree than had commonly been assumed. 25 Israel's relations with the United States were also affected by some miscalculations and mistakes. As always, internal politics had a major impact on the country's external behavior.…”