The Significance of the USA in the Arab-Israeli Conflicts (1956-1973)

The Arab-Israeli conflicts between 1956 and 1973 were pivotal moments in the Middle East, characterized by shifting alliances and geopolitical tensions. While various actors played significant roles, the USA's influence on the outcomes of these conflicts was undeniably crucial, though its level of significance varied in each instance.

The Suez Crisis (1956): A Diminished Role

In the 1956 Suez Crisis, the USA played a lesser role compared to Britain and France. The conflict was primarily instigated by the Anglo-French desire to regain control of the Suez Canal after its nationalization by Egyptian President Nasser. The surprise attack, coordinated with Israeli forces, successfully overwhelmed the Egyptians. However, the USA, fearing wider Soviet involvement and a potential nuclear escalation, condemned the attack and pressured Britain, France, and Israel to withdraw. The USSR's threat of nuclear strikes further expedited the ceasefire. In this instance, the USA's role, while important in preventing escalation, was reactive rather than decisive.

The Six-Day War (1967): Growing Influence

The 1967 Six-Day War marked a turning point in the USA's involvement in the region. Following the Suez Crisis, the USA adopted a more proactive approach towards Israel's security, exemplified by the Eisenhower Doctrine and President Johnson's pro-Israel policies. The USA provided substantial financial aid that enabled Israel to modernize its armed forces, procuring advanced weaponry from NATO countries. This support, coupled with Israel's strategic planning and tactical superiority under Moshe Dayan, contributed significantly to Israel's swift and decisive victory. While Britain and France also supplied arms to Israel, the USA's financial and military backing proved more impactful in shaping the conflict's outcome.

The Yom Kippur War (1973): A Dominant Force

The 1973 Yom Kippur War witnessed the most direct and significant US involvement. The USA's staunch support for Israel, driven by Cold War rivalry with the USSR, shaped the course of the war. Despite early Egyptian successes, the USA's provision of critical military aid, including tanks, proved instrumental in turning the tide in Israel's favor. Furthermore, President Nixon's refusal to pressure Israel for a ceasefire until it had regained lost territory demonstrated the USA's unwavering commitment to its ally. The looming threat of a nuclear standoff between the USA and the USSR further underscored the global stakes involved. The USA's diplomatic efforts, led by Henry Kissinger, eventually secured a ceasefire, but only after Israel had achieved significant territorial gains.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while other actors played significant parts, the USA's role in the Arab-Israeli conflicts between 1956 and 1973 grew progressively more decisive. From its reactive stance in 1956, the USA transitioned to become Israel's primary backer, providing essential military and diplomatic support that ultimately tipped the scales in Israel's favor. The USA's Cold War rivalry with the USSR further fueled its involvement, transforming the regional conflicts into proxy wars with global implications. Therefore, the USA's influence during this period was undeniably significant in shaping the course of the Arab-Israeli conflict and the geopolitical landscape of the Middle East.

Sources:

⭐Prittie, T. (2001). The Arab-Israeli Wars. London: Random House.
⭐Bregman, A. (2002). Israel's Wars: A History Since 1947. London: Routledge.