Reevaluating the U.S.-Israel Relationship in the Context of American Interests in the Middle East: Recognizing a Palestinian State as a Strategic Imperative

ABSTRACT T his study examines the prospective strategic gains that could result from the United States’ recognition of the State of Palestine and a reassessment of its relationship with Israel. It is grounded in the premise that acknowledging the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination, and supporting the establishment of an independent Palestinian state, may generate tangible strategic benefits aligned with U.S. interests. At the same time, the study argues that Israel no longer functions as the strategic asset its proponents within American society claim; rather, it has evolved into a political, economic, moral, and legal liability that adversely affects Washington’s interests in the Middle East and beyond. Continued U.S. support for Israel at the expense of broader Middle Eastern concerns, particularly the Palestinian issue has contributed to the erosion of the United States’ international standing. On the one hand, this policy diverges from the preferences of a significant segment of American public opinion and exacerbates the national debt, which has already surpassed $38 trillion. On the other hand, unconditional support for Israel undermines Washington’s credibility as a defender of democracy and human rights, as well as its commitment to upholding international law. Accordingly, in order to reaffirm its leadership within the international system and enhance its global legitimacy, the United States should undertake substantive steps toward endorsing a two-state solution and recognizing a Palestinian state, as part of a balanced policy aimed at promoting regional peace and stability.

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