Yoram Ettinger: Why Israel can Withstand Obama's Pressure

Israel's support among Americans is as robust as always, expected to be reinforced following the midterm November, 2010 election.

Anyone claiming that Israel's Prime Minister cannot endure US presidential pressure – and therefore must accept sweeping concessions – is either dramatically mistaken, outrageously misleading or attempting to justify inability to endure pressure.

In August 2010, Israel was ranked by "The Rusmussen Report" – for the second year in a row – as the third most favored ally of the USA (71%), following Canada and Britain, ahead of Germany, Japan, France and Mexico, significantly ahead of Egypt (42%) and Saudi Arabia (21%). 

In April 2010, "The Quinnipiac Institute" – often quoted by The New York Time, the Washington Post and CNN – documented public support of Obama's national security policy, other than one issue: Israel!  By an overwhelming majority of 66%:19% Americans expect President Obama to further his support of Israel.

In February 2010, "Gallup" placed Israel as the 5^th most popular country in the USA, while the Palestinian Authority was one of three least favorite entities along with North Korea and Iran.

In June 2010, "Gallup" determined that terrorism and the federal debt tie as the most worrisome issues to Americans, more than healthcare costs, unemployment, illegal immigration, US troops in Iraq and Afghanistan and the environment. In February 2010, "Gallup" confirmed that Americans do not trust the United Nations.  These findings shed light on the broad common denominator between the USA and Israel, which is perceived by Americans as the role model of counter-terrorism and defiance of the UN.  

In September 2009, "The Rusmussen Report" found that Israel is one of only five countries that most Americans are willing to defend militarily.  Israel is ranked third (59%) following Canada and Britain. 

However, the "Super Poll" is taking place daily on Capitol Hill.  House Members (about 75%) and Senators (about 85%) overwhelmingly support pro-Israel legislation and resolutions, even in opposition to the President. Legislators – and especially the 435 House Members who must run for reelection every two years – are extremely sensitive to the preferences of their constituents.  They are aware of the clout and centrality of the voters under the American system of government, which is the most representative in the world, distributing equal power to Congress and the White House. 

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