US Middle East Policy

Israelis Mark Jerusalem Day Amid New Political Reality.
Dr. Emmanuel Navon: Move of the US embassy to Jerusalem marks a turning point in the city’s history. "It will be remembered as a major event.”

America set to inaugurate embassy in Jerusalem.
Prof. Efraim Inbar: The move introduces a dose of realism into the international discourse on Jerusalem.

‘America Is Back’: U.S., Israeli Right Plan Next Move
Fresh off Iran deal and Jerusalem embassy wins, CPAC holds an illuminating call. Lerman and Weinberg from JISS say that the US and Israel are on the same page, with a sober understanding of the challenges ahead.

The broader context to US President Trump’s recent decisions to nix the nuclear deal with Iran and to move the US embassy to Jerusalem is restoration of America’s credibility as a world power after eight years of diffident presidential leadership.

Trump has ‘walked back’ vow of pullout in Syria, experts say.
Dr. Eran Leman: Trump will allow US forces to remain, but only if the French and Saudis agree to share the burden.

Israeli analysts question Trump’s Syrian troop pullout push.
Prof. Efraim Inbar: This air strike was the bare minimum. Assad will not be deterred by this.

'MISSION ACCOMPLISHED' IN SYRIA WOULD BE BLESSING FOR ASSAD, TROUBLE FOR ISRAEL.
Dr. J. Spyer: Jerusalem remains concerned that the US and its partners are turning a blind eye to Iran's attempts to entrench itself in the country.

Don't congratulate the administration on avoiding Russian retaliation. The humanitarian crisis in Syria remains, and the real collision course here is between Israel and Iran.

The American-British-French strike in Syria should be seen as an exercise in building Western deterrence and creditability in advance of the decision expected next month regarding the nuclear deal with Iran.

SAUDIS PUBLICLY OPPOSE U.S. EXITING SYRIA WHILE ISRAEL OBJECTS QUIETLY
Col. Lerman: US withdrawal from Syria would have very negative consequences for Israel and the region