Why do Americans tolerate letting Israel dictate our Israel policy?

[Matrosov]

26. Religion, culture, pragmatism, and guilt

Religion is one answer. Supporters of Israel see ours as a Judeo-Christian nation and therefore believe it is our duty to help our "Jewish brothers," especially in such a hostile part of the world. Interestingly, when you look back over the past 1500 years or so, Jews and Muslims were much more likely to be allies while Christians were more than happy to fight both.

Culture is another one. Israeli culture is generally far more Westernized than Arab culture, and this makes it easier for the average person to identify with Israelis than with Palestinians. Furthermore, the Palestinians have historically been allied with Hamas and other groups who like to engage in terrorist activities, which doesn't help their image among Americans.

Israel is also seen as one of the very few reliable allies in the region. Plus while Israel often does what it wants, there is an argument to be made that US support for Israel actually tempers their actions. I've seen several people make compelling cases that without the threat of the US withdrawing financial and political support, Israel probably would've engaged in many more military campaigns.

Lastly, there is guilt. Jews have traditionally not been treated very well, and like I said, Christians have often been the worst offenders. Then there is the Holocaust, and while the Jews weren't the only victims of that genocide, they bore the brunt of it, and many Americans feel we would be making a huge mistake if we left the Israeli Jews to fend for themselves. Hamas and others have not exactly made it a secret that the complete destruction of Israel is their ultimate goal.

At least that's my take on things, regardless of whether our support for Israel is ultimately good or bad.