A recent Bloomberg poll noted a disturbing political fact: Republicans are willing to support Israel even when its objectives diverge from those of the US. This ominous stance is a consequence of the fundamentalist Christian leanings of the GOP. Many Republicans blindly support Israel because they are praying for Armageddon.
The Bloomberg poll examined the deep political divide surrounding US policy on Israel and Iran. The poll asked: “When it comes to relations between the US and Israel, which of the following do you agree with more?” 47 percent of respondents chose, “Israel is an ally but we should pursue America’s interests when we disagree with them.” However, 45 percent chose, “Israel is an important ally, the only democracy in the region, and we should support it even if our interests diverge.”
Whether or not to offer Israel unquestioning support was split along Party lines. 67 percent of Republicans said we should support Israel even when we disagree with them. 64 percent of Democrats said we should pursue America’s interests when we disagree with Israel.
While the Bloomberg poll question may appear theoretical, it’s based upon the reality that Israel’s interests are not always in sync with those of the US.
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