Former Vice President Mike Pence has issued a robust defense of the U.S.-Israel alliance, framing it as an indispensable pillar of American foreign policy and a vital safeguard against the rise of antisemitism within the conservative movement. In a piece published on Fox News, Pence argues that the United States must remain steadfast in its support for Israel, emphasizing shared democratic values, national security imperatives, and a centuries-old historical bond. He warns against the growing influence of antisemitic rhetoric, which he describes as a dangerous trend that undermines the conservative movement’s principles and threatens to erode America’s moral and strategic resolve.
Pence’s remarks come amid heightened debates within the conservative movement about the role of U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East. While some voices on the right have questioned the wisdom of maintaining close ties with Israel, Pence insists that the alliance is not merely a political gesture but a strategic necessity. He underscores Israel’s role in countering existential threats, such as Iran’s nuclear ambitions, and highlights the U.S.-Israel partnership’s contributions to global stability. Pence also references historical ties, noting that the Founding Fathers, including George Washington and Benjamin Franklin, championed Jewish sovereignty and supported Jewish communities in America. These connections, he argues, reinforce the moral and practical imperative of U.S. support for Israel.
The piece also addresses broader concerns about isolationism and the moral hazards of abandoning long-standing allies. Pence criticizes those who equate isolation with security, arguing that such perspectives ignore the real-world consequences of nuclear proliferation and regional instability. He points to Israel’s recent military actions, including the 2024 precision strikes against Hezbollah leadership, as evidence of the alliance’s tangible impact on global security. For Pence, the U.S. and Israel are not just partners but co-architects of a world where democracy prevails over tyranny. He concludes by invoking religious faith, framing Israel’s existence as a testament to divine providence and a reminder of America’s covenantal obligations to uphold liberty and justice.