Foreign aid and Middle East peace

Abstract

This thesis examines the relationship between foreign aid and Middle East peace. The focus of this research is on Israel, and its relations with Egypt, Syria and the Palestinians. The thesis highlights the opposing interests of these actors and the United States interest in the region, and how these contrasting views seem to be roadblocks to a comprehensive peace. However, there is evidence that U.S. foreign aid can act as compensation for the compromises incurred by these actors, for the sake of peace in the region. The thesis concludes that by inadequately addressing the root of the Arab-Israeli problem: territorial claims that essentially predate Israel's establishment, but more specifically the pre-1997 claims, and the security of all parties, U.S. foreign assistance to the region will serve as a band-Aid approach to regional stability. However, present indicators dictate that this method is meeting U.S. Middle East Foreign Policy goals, and securing its vital interests in the region.