Israel is the only liberal democracy in the Middle East, a region where freedom of speech, religion, and political dissent is often suppressed.
By Rachel Avraham
In today’s interconnected and complex world, the foreign policy choices of the United States have profound implications, not only for global stability but also for the lives of future generations. One of America’s longest-standing and most strategic alliances is with the State of Israel. While older generations have largely understood the significance of this partnership, many young Americans are either uninformed or divided when it comes to Israel. However, there are compelling reasons — rooted in history, values, innovation, and security — why the younger generation should stand with Israel.
Israel is the only liberal democracy in the Middle East, a region where freedom of speech, religion, and political dissent is often suppressed. It has a robust system of checks and balances, free elections, an independent judiciary, and active civil society groups.
Young Americans, who frequently advocate for gender equality, LGBTQ+ rights, and minority protections, will find that Israel is a leader in these areas compared to its neighbors. For example, Israel legalized LGBTQ+ military service decades before the United States did, and its vibrant press is among the freest in the region. Supporting Israel means standing with a country that mirrors many of the values that young Americans hold dear.
The U.S.–Israel relationship is not merely strategic; it is deeply moral and historical. The United States was among the first nations to recognize Israel’s independence in 1948, following the horrors of the Holocaust. Israel became a homeland for Jewish survivors who had nowhere else to turn after one of humanity’s darkest periods.
For young Americans who value human rights and justice, supporting Israel is also about acknowledging the resilience of a people who have faced centuries of persecution. In an age where antisemitism is once again on the rise — both online and in public spaces — advocating for Israel is a way to combat this ancient hatred and ensure that “never again” is not just a slogan but a reality.
The Middle East remains one of the most unstable regions in the world, plagued by terrorism, authoritarianism, and regional conflicts. In this challenging environment, Israel stands out as America’s most reliable and capable ally.
U.S. military experts and policymakers frequently acknowledge that Israel’s intelligence capabilities are unmatched in the region. Information shared by Israel has helped prevent terrorist attacks not only in the Middle East but also in Europe and North America. The Iron Dome missile defense system, co-developed by Israel and supported by U.S. funding, has saved thousands of civilian lives and is now influencing U.S. military defense technologies.
In essence, supporting Israel enhances U.S. national security, and young Americans should see this partnership as one that safeguards both nations’ interests. Israel’s nickname, the “Start-Up Nation,” is well-earned. Despite its small size and limited natural resources, Israel has produced some of the world’s most groundbreaking technologies, many of which directly benefit Americans.
The Waze navigation app, USB flash drive, and mobile camera technology have Israeli roots. In healthcare, Israeli scientists have developed revolutionary cancer treatments, AI-driven diagnostic tools, and medical devices that save lives globally. Israel invests over 4.5% of its GDP in research and development, one of the highest rates in the world.
Young Americans, who are highly engaged with technology and entrepreneurship, can find inspiration in Israel’s innovative spirit. Supporting Israel also means fostering economic and scientific partnerships that benefit both nations.
Israel’s history is defined not only by conflict but by its persistent attempts to achieve peace. From signing peace treaties with Egypt (1979) and Jordan (1994) to the Abraham Accords (2020), which normalized relations with the UAE, Bahrain, Morocco, and Sudan, Israel has consistently shown that diplomacy is possible, even in a hostile environment.
For young Americans who value dialogue over violence, supporting Israel is about encouraging these peace-building efforts and creating a future where cooperation replaces conflict in the Middle East.
Israel is on the frontlines of the war against terrorism. Terror groups like Hamas, Hezbollah, and ISIS pose threats not only to Israel but also to Western nations, including the United States. Israel’s experience in counterterrorism, cybersecurity, and defense technology has become a global asset.
For example, U.S. and Israeli forces regularly conduct joint exercises, share intelligence, and co-develop technologies to combat cyber threats — a growing danger in the digital age. By supporting Israel, young Americans are backing a partner who actively works to protect the free world from extremist violence.
Israel is not just a political ally but also a cultural partner. Jewish and American values have long been intertwined, and the close relationship between the Jewish-American community and Israel fosters unique cultural exchanges. From high-tech collaborations to humanitarian missions (such as Israeli aid teams assisting during U.S. hurricanes), the partnership goes beyond politics.
Moreover, Israel is often among the first countries to send humanitarian aid during international disasters, from earthquakes in Haiti to refugee crises worldwide. This humanitarian ethos resonates strongly with young Americans who believe in global responsibility and compassion.
More than $50 billion in trade and investment flows between the U.S. and Israel annually. Joint research programs between American universities and Israeli institutions have produced cutting-edge findings in fields like medicine, engineering, and renewable energy.
Programs like Birthright Israel give young Jewish Americans the opportunity to connect with their heritage, while numerous student exchange initiatives strengthen ties between both nations’ youth. Young Americans, particularly those interested in STEM, entrepreneurship, and social change, benefit directly from these partnerships.
Unfortunately, misinformation about Israel is widespread, particularly on social media platforms. Some portray Israel solely through the lens of conflict, ignoring its democratic institutions, diverse society, and contributions to the world.
Young Americans should seek out balanced, fact-based perspectives, understanding that Israel, like any country, faces challenges and criticisms, but it remains a beacon of democracy and innovation in a region often defined by instability.
Young Americans have a unique role to play in shaping the future of U.S.–Israel relations. By educating themselves, engaging in dialogue, and advocating for fair and informed policies, they ensure that the alliance continues to thrive.
Supporting Israel does not mean ignoring the complexities of the Middle East or failing to empathize with other peoples. Instead, it means recognizing Israel’s right to exist, its commitment to democratic values, and its contributions to global peace and progress.
In a time when democracy, innovation, and freedom face growing challenges, Israel stands as a symbol of resilience and determination. For young Americans, supporting Israel is both a moral choice — to stand against hate and antisemitism — and a strategic one, ensuring that the United States continues to partner with a nation that shares its values and its vision for a better future.
By standing with Israel, young Americans are not just supporting a foreign ally. They are supporting a global partner in the fight for democracy, peace, and human dignity — principles that will define the future they inherit.
Photo from Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Israel%E2%80%93United_States_relations#/media/File:Israel_CHOD_visit_150108-D-HU462-018_(16231906515).jpg
