New Page in U.S.-ISRAEL Relations. D. Trump: Expectations, Hopes and Fears

Abstract

The U.S.-Israel relationship has never existed in a vacuum; it has always been part of a broader regional strategy. Israel hoped the 45th president of the United States has ostensibly ended an eight- year deterioration of the U.S.-Israel relationship. He committed himself to pro-Israeli positions, which was welcomed in Jerusalem. However, Trump’s precise policy vis-à-vis Israel is likewise difficult to define. He made problematic statements regarding the issue of foreign aid to US allies, and declared that he would be neutral regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Israel is still facing more questions than answers. Some are rooted in the uncertainty relating to the new US administration and the implications of that change for Israel’s strategic environment, but many are linked to the Israeli penchant for avoiding decisions that it must make for itself. In the international arena, it is important to rebuild Israel’s status by relying not only on the Trump administration. Some Israeli politicians believe that Trump’s unquestioning support means trouble for Israel. The Trumportunity is by no means a guarantee. The opportunity here is just that, an opportunity.