The Arab-Israeli Conflict in American Political Culture

This book surveys discourse and opinion in the United States towards the Arab-Israeli conflict since 1991.

Jonathan Rynhold (Author)

9781107476400, Cambridge University Press

Paperback / softback, published 23 February 2015

311 pages, 11 b/w illus. 36 tables
22.9 x 15.3 x 1.7 cm, 0.42 kg

'Jonathan Rynhold is one of the most perceptive observers of American perspectives on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict that Israel has produced in recent years. While many Israelis fashion themselves as experts on America, Rynhold is the real thing. He has kept his finger on the pulse like very few others. Readers will gain much from his wide knowledge and profound insights.' David Makovsky, The Washington Institute for Near East Policy

This book surveys discourse and opinion in the United States toward the Arab-Israeli conflict since 1991. Contrary to popular myth, it demonstrates that US support for Israel is not based on the pro-Israel lobby, but rather is deeply rooted in American political culture. That support has increased since 9/11. However, the bulk of this increase has been among Republicans, conservatives, evangelicals, and Orthodox Jews. Meanwhile, among Democrats, liberals, the Mainline Protestant Church, and non-Orthodox Jews, criticism of Israeli policies toward the Palestinians has become more vociferous. This book works to explain this paradox.

Introduction
1. Like US: identifying with Israel
Part I. Party and Ideology: 2. Republicans, conservatives, and the Right: the surge in support for Israel
3. Democrats, liberals, and the Left: the rise in criticism of Israel
Part II. Protestants: 4. Evangelicals and Christian Zionism: standing with Israel
5. The Mainline and anti-Zionism: divesting from Israel?
Part III. Jews: 6. American Jews' attachment to Israel: mind the gap
7. American Jews and the peace process: divided we stand?
Conclusion.

Subject Areas: Constitution: government & the state [JPHC], Politics & government [JP]