Michael Kassen, incoming AIPAC (American Israel Public Affairs Committee) President, will be our guest speaker on Friday, November 18, 2011, at 6:00 pm in the Stern Great Room.  A complimentary kosher meal will provided.  Please rsvp to loudonl@dickinson.edu.

Americans broadly support Israel: A recent Gallup poll showed Israel fifth in favorability ranking after Canada, Great Britain, Germany and Japan. This is usually explained by "common values," moral responsibility and the deep religious character of the United States. Americans also overwhelmingly view Israel as a reliable ally. Nonetheless, many in the opinion elites (business, foreign policy, academia) view the U.S.-Israel relationship as chiefly benefiting Israel: America gives Israel major financial and diplomatic assistance, but receives little in return. In fact, however, the U.S. derives much strategic benefit from its alliance with Israel. Intelligence, counterterrorism, military hardware, battlefield experience and homeland security are all areas where the U.S. has gained a great deal from the close relationship. Furthermore, Israeli defense actions (Osirik in 1981 and Syria in 2007) have been key contributors to American national security. We welcome you to hear more on this topic and meet president-elect Michael Kassen at this event.