Israel as a Sophisticated Military Partner Demonstrates the Value of Capable Allies to U.S. Strategic Interests
Source: Eliot A. Cohen. "America’s Invaluable Ally - The Atlantic." March 1, 2026. www.theatlantic.com
The Gist
The author argues that Israel has proven to be an exceptionally valuable ally to the United States because it can fight alongside America as an equal partner rather than a junior ally. Unlike other U.S. allies who contribute much smaller forces, Israel deployed 200 fighter jets in the first day of attacks on Iran, matching American operational scale and demonstrating sophisticated military capabilities that make joint operations more effective.
Conclusion
Having sophisticated, creative, and bold allies like Israel that can operate at scale is an extraordinary asset that the United States still retains and should prize
Premises
- Israel has demonstrated peer-level military capability by deploying 200 jets to hit 500+ targets in the first day of operations against Iran, matching U.S. operational scale
- Israeli military capabilities far exceed those of traditional U.S. European allies, as evidenced by Britain deploying only 60 strike aircraft during the Gulf War compared to Israel's current 200-jet operation
- Israel operates with the latest American aircraft and munitions, creating seamless integration with U.S. forces in joint operations
- The U.S.-Israel partnership extends beyond conventional warfare to sophisticated intelligence operations, covert action, and special operations where Israel serves as an equal partner
- Iran's attacks on multiple Arab neighbors have expanded the anti-Iran coalition, demonstrating how capable allies can help build broader strategic partnerships
- The current conflict represents a long-term strategic campaign for regime change rather than limited objectives, requiring the kind of sustained, sophisticated partnership that Israel provides
Assumptions
- Military capability and operational scale are primary measures of ally value
- Peer-level partnerships are more valuable than traditional junior partner relationships
- The current Iran conflict serves U.S. strategic interests
- Regime change in Iran is a desirable outcome for U.S. policy
- Covert operations and intelligence sharing represent legitimate forms of international cooperation