Deputy Foreign Minister Danny Ayalon (former Israel Ambassador to Washington) discusses Israel-US relations
Transcript:
Despite recent media reports of a worsening relationship between Israel and the United States, it is clear that these ties are as strong as ever. The bonds between the United States and Israel are far too great for any minor differences to impede.
These two great nations, Israel and the United States, have an immense sense of shared values, ethos and interests. When President Obama spoke in Cairo, he spoke directly to the Arab and Muslim world and stated clearly and succinctly that America's strong bonds with Israel are well known. This bond is unbreakable. It is based upon cultural and historical ties.
In these particularly unstable times, Americans can look with certainty to Israel as a true and enduring ally. The interests we share certainly include the yearning for a full peace in our region and a better future for all of our neighbors. We share a commonality of vision for a new peaceful reality that will be good for both Israelis and Arabs.
Like all good friends, there are sometimes small disputes. However, just like good friends, we will reach an understanding and reconcile two differences of opinions. To that, I have little doubt.
The Obama administration has continued to assist Israel in maintaining a qualitative edge in the region. The Arrow 3 project, anti-ballistic missiles developed and deployed by Israel, continues to be jointly funded and produced by Israel and the United States.This contributes to an equal share of a missile defense which protects both Israel and American interests in the region.
There is the ongoing and vital working group on Iran, where Americans and Israelis regularly meet and keep each other constantly updated on the growing threat of a nuclear armed Iran. Both nations, along with many others, here in the Middle East and beyond, understand that a nuclear armed Iran is unacceptable. Israel continues to share vital intelligence with the U.S. that contributes towards keeping Americans safe.
The recent visits of the largest ever Congressional delegations of both Republicans and Democrats attest to the fact that when it comes to Israel there is bipartisan support.
Both delegations understand that it is not the settlements that are the root cause for an impasse in negotiations, but the reluctance of Palestinian Authority President Abbas to even meet with our Prime Minister Netanyahu, despite many invitations to do so.
Congressional letters have been signed by both leading Democrat and Republicans that has praised my government for its commitment to peace, especially improving the daily lives of the Palestinians. The letters also encourage Arab leaders to take similar tangible steps to demonstrate their commitment to the peace process.
It is not just amongst the politicians that support for Israel remains strong. We hear poll after poll declaring that amongst the American people, Israel is viewed very positively. A recent poll stated that 70% of Americans see Israel as an ally, the strongest, long with the UK and Canada.
Israel remains the greatest ally of the U.S. in the region and beyond, this is recognized by senators, congressman and the American public. We know that this will continue for many generations to come.