The Transition of Israel’s Foreign Strategy in 1948-1977: An Analytical Framework of National Interest

Abstract

Since the end of World War II, Israel has shifted its diplomatic strategy among several key partnerships. The initial Soviet-Israeli cooperation (1948-1954) gave way to the Franco-Israeli alliance (1956-1967), which eventually transitioned to the US-Israeli special relationship (1968-1977). This article uses multiple case studies to examine theoretical assumptions and intermediate mechanisms, drawing on existing international relations theories and national foreign policy decision-making processes. At the core of diplomatic strategy selection is national interest, and Israel's approach has oscillated between survival interests and political interests from 1948 to 1977. When Israel's survival is threatened, political interests and other considerations become secondary in diplomatic strategy. After ensuring survival interests, political interests become the primary focus of Israel's diplomatic strategy.