The Role of the USA in the Arab-Israeli Conflicts of 1956-1973
TITLE
How significant was the USA to the outcome of the Arab–Israeli conflicts between 1956 and 1973?
ESSAY
The United States played a significant role in the Arab-Israeli conflicts between 1956 and 1973. In examining the period, it becomes evident that the USA had a major impact on the outcomes of these conflicts.
In 1956, the USA was pivotal in condemning the Anglo-French and Israeli attack on Egypt during the Suez Crisis. The US insisted on Israel's withdrawal from the Sinai Peninsula, showcasing its influence in pushing for peace and stability in the region. This incident marked the beginning of the USA's involvement in the Arab-Israeli conflicts.
During the Six-Day War in 1967, the USA provided significant financial and military support to Israel, aiding in the modernization of its armed forces. Israel purchased weapons such as tanks and aircraft from NATO countries, strengthening its military capabilities. The Eisenhower Doctrine and the adoption of a pro-Israel foreign policy by President Johnson in 1963 further solidified the USA's support for Israel during this period.
In 1973, the USA continued to play a crucial role in the conflict by supporting Israel against Egypt during the Yom Kippur War. The Nixon administration refused to back Egypt, demonstrating its strong alliance with Israel as part of the broader Cold War tensions. The threat of a nuclear exchange, particularly if the USSR intervened in the conflict, further underscored the significance of the USA's involvement in influencing the conflict's outcome.
However, it is important to note that while the USA was significant in these conflicts, other factors also played a role in shaping the outcome. In 1956, Britain and France were instrumental in planning a surprise attack to retake the Suez Canal, showcasing their independent actions in the conflict. During the Six-Day War, Israel's own military tactics, air superiority, and political leadership also contributed significantly to its victory. In 1973, the effectiveness of Israel's counter-attack and air superiority, as well as the USSR's initiative to bring an end to the conflict, also influenced the course of the war.
In conclusion, while the USA's involvement was an essential factor in the Arab-Israeli conflicts between 1956 and 1973, it was not the sole determinant of the outcomes. The interplay of various factors, including the actions of other countries, military strategies, and geopolitical considerations, all contributed to shaping the course of these conflicts.
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How significant was the USA to the outcome of the Arab–Israeli conflicts between 1956 and 1973? Explain your answer.
YES –
- 1956: USA was shocked by the Anglo-French and Israeli attack on Egypt; condemned the attack; USA insisted Israel withdraw from the Sinai.
- 1967 Six-Day War: Israel modernized its armed forces with financial support from the USA; weapons such as tanks and aircraft were bought from NATO countries; Eisenhower Doctrine; 1963 Johnson adopted a pro-Israel foreign policy.
- 1973: USA refused to support Egypt; strong alliance with Israel as part of Cold War tensions; US tanks sent to fight Egypt; Nixon refused a ceasefire until Israel had reclaimed lost territory in the Sinai and Golan Heights; threat of a nuclear exchange if USSR got involved in war – Kissinger and Nixon, etc.
NO –
- 1956: USA less significant than role of Britain and France who planned a surprise attack to retake the Suez Canal; use of Israeli paratroopers overwhelmed Egyptian forces; USSR threatened nuclear strike if Britain and France did not end war.
- 1967: Britain and France sold weapons to Israel; air superiority of Israel; Moshe Dayan’s military tactics and surprise attack; Israeli political leadership.
- 1973: Israeli counter-attack very effective; air superiority; USSR initiative to bring war to an end; role of the UN, etc.