Strategy for a Middle East Peace - Is the US Acting in Its Own Best Interest?

Abstract

Abstract : The United States is not acting in its best interest with respect to Israel and the Middle East peace. Congress and many government officials have stated that Middle East peace is a vital national interest, yet the legislative and executive branches of government act to undermine the peace process through unconditional support for Israel and its policies. This paper uses the National Security Strategy (May 1997) and the pronouncements of state Department officials to outline US interests in the Middle East. Actions taken or not taken to advance the peace are then examined as well as the stated rationale for these actions and policies. As the examination unfolds, two things become clear: the US is acting to undermine justice for the Palestinian and peace in the region, and Israelis a pariah nation that violates every value that is the ethos of America. Israelis what we teach our children to abhor; a country that practices genocide and has no respect for the basic human rights of others. Six national interests are examined in making this evaluation: 1) the free flow of oil at reasonable prices; 2) the security of Israel and our Arab allies; 3) stability in the region; 4) combating terrorism and the spread of weapons of mass destruction; 5) promoting democracy and respect for human rights and the rule of law; 6) and enhancing business opportunities for American companies. The United States has the ability to achieve each of these interests and also to secure these interests, but chooses to jeopardize them by allowing Israel unrestrained latitude in dispossessing the Palestinian Arabs. The United States acts to marginalize the international community who seeks to force Israel to act like a responsible member of the global family. In doing so, the United States compromises its national values, its global leadership and its vital interest in the Middle East.