Donald Trump’s America First strategy is being re-evaluated by national security experts as a strategic approach centered around reinforcing the U.S.-Israel alliance to deter regional adversaries. According to Fred Fleitz, a former National Security Council chief of staff, the policy prioritizes a decisive U.S. leadership in national security while keeping American troops out of unnecessary conflicts. Fleitz argues that supporting Israel is not an emotional decision but one that aligns with U.S. strategic interests. He states that Israel is effectively managing regional threats that the U.S. would have to deal with otherwise, making it a cornerstone of America’s security framework. This includes dealing with Iran, its allies, and the broader Middle Eastern tensions that could endanger U.S. interests.
Mike Makovsky, CEO of the Jewish Institute for National Security of America (JINSA), emphasizes that Israel plays a pivotal role in neutralizing regional threats, particularly those linked to Iran and Islamic extremism. He points out that the U.S.-Israel alliance is not just about sentiment but about protecting critical regional interests, including energy security and maintaining stability in the Middle East. Makovsky highlights that the U.S. has a lot to gain from Israel’s efforts to counter Iran’s influence and that a strong U.S.-Israel alliance is vital for deterring potential threats to American national security. He warns that any perceived weakness in this relationship could undermine American credibility globally, especially in regions where allies such as China and Russia are actively working against U.S. interests.
Both analysts agree that the America First policy is not about isolation but about strategic partnerships that serve America’s long-term security goals. Fleitz argues that the strategy is built on the premise of prudently using military force when necessary to protect American interests, rather than engaging in prolonged wars that drain resources. He points to the recent efforts to counter Iran’s nuclear advance as an example of this approach, where the U.S. has chosen to support Israel’s actions rather than directly engaging in the conflict. Makovsky adds that the alliance with Israel also provides economic benefits, such as ensuring energy security and stability in oil production, which supports the broader American economy. The experts believe that the U.S.-Israel alliance is a critical element of America’s strategic deterrence policy, helping the country maintain its global influence while reducing the need for direct military interventions.
In a broader context, both Fleitz and Makovsky view Iran and its allies as a significant threat to U.S. interests, particularly in the Middle East. They argue that Israel’s actions in countering these groups effectively neutralize potential conflicts, freeing the U.S. to focus on other strategic priorities. Fleitz highlights that Trump’s willingness to take a firm stance against Iran’s nuclear program exemplifies the America First approach, which seeks to prevent longer-term conflicts by acting decisively. Makovsky adds that the U.S.-Israel alliance is also a key factor in maintaining global stability, as it ensures the security of critical trade routes and prevents regional destabilization that could impact the U.S. economy and international standing. Both experts conclude that the America First strategy, through its emphasis on strategic alliances, is a way to protect American interests without overextending military resources, ensuring a more secure and economically stable global position for the United States.