What is the definition of an American ally? On an ideological
level, an ally is a country that shares America's values,
reflects its founding spirit, and resonates with its people's
beliefs. Tactically, an ally stands with the United States
through multiple conflicts and promotes its global vision. From
its location at one strategic crossroads, an ally enhances
American intelligence and defense capabilities, and provides
ports and training for U.S. forces. Its army is formidable and
unequivocally loyal to its democratic government. An ally helps
secure America's borders and assists in saving American lives on
and off the battlefield. And an ally stimulates the U.S. economy
through trade, technological innovation, and job creation. Few
countries fit this description, but Israel is certainly one of
them. As U.S. President Barack Obama told a White House
gathering, "The United States has no better friend in the world
than Israel," a statement reflecting the positions of Democrats
and Republicans alike. The impor