Israel lobby wields major influence in U.S. politics and defense
The Israel lobby in the United States is a loose but influential network composed of various organizations such as AIPAC (American Israel Public Affairs Committee), JINSA (Jewish Institute for National Security of America), Christian Zionist groups, think tanks, PACs (Political Action Committees), and individual donors.
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- Published Date: 10:50 | 25 June 2025
- Modified Date: 10:55 | 25 June 2025
The Jewish lobbying efforts, which began in the 19th century, gained momentum in the U.S. after World War II. The founding of the American Zionist Council in 1949 brought legitimacy to lobbying activities, and with the establishment of AIPAC in 1954, these efforts became institutionalized, gradually gaining substantial influence over Congress.
AIPAC's Grip: 96% Congressional Win Rate
AIPAC is not a single-format organization. One of its most influential arms is the United Democracy Project, a super PAC that exerts significant influence over the House of Representatives, the Senate, and the presidency. Between 2022 and 2024, 96% of the congressional candidates supported by AIPAC won their elections.
The U.S. military-industrial complex is sustained by the ties between lobbying efforts and the defense budget. Through lobbying, aid to Israel increases, defense companies reap huge profits, and over 60% of Congress members fund their campaigns with donations from defense contractors.
$3.8 Billion Annually to Israel
Founded in 1976, JINSA actively works to strengthen U.S.-Israel strategic ties, especially in the defense sector. It directly influences defense policy through field visits with American generals, military retirees, and academy cadets.
As a think tank, JINSA publishes reports that impact Pentagon policy. Retired U.S. defense officials often hold executive roles in defense firms.
Of the $3.8 billion in annual U.S. military aid to Israel, about 80% is spent on products from American defense companies. Giants like Lockheed Martin, Boeing, and Northrop Grumman are involved in joint projects with Israel. These collaborations have evolved from being merely deterrent strategies into strategic partnerships, thanks to lobbying efforts. The boards of these companies often include retired generals, former security advisors, and figures from lobbying circles.
Trump: Not Fully Under Control
Former President Donald Trump's Middle East policies were largely shaped by AIPAC and evangelical-backed lobbying circles. While his policies often aligned with the interests of the Israel lobby, Trump was not entirely under their control. Nevertheless, support from organizations like AIPAC and JINSA, through campaign backing and public pressure, pushed Trump to take certain positions.
How Jewish Lobby Groups Operate
Conditional Military Aid: 80% of U.S. military aid to Israel must be spent on American defense industry products.
Think Tanks: Groups like JINSA encourage academics and military personnel involved in strategic defense planning to collaborate with Israel.
Revolving Door Strategy: Retired generals and bureaucrats take roles in defense firms, influencing defense policies.
Campaign Donations: Lobbying firms gain influence by making donations to presidential and congressional campaigns.
Major Arms Deals: Lobby groups supported Gulf weapons deals during Trump's tenure.
Domestic Lobbying Shapes Foreign Policy: Lobbying within U.S. politics drives pro-Israel decision-making and shapes the moral and strategic rationale behind foreign policy.