The close relationship of the "neo-cons" and AIPAC and their influence on US foreign policy in the Middle East. (c2010)

Includes bibliographical references (leaves 81-87).The purpose of this study is to present an argument for the position that a close affinity between the "neo-cons" and Israel exists thus, this thesis will explore Bush's neo-conservative administration's role in triggering, planning and permitting the Iraqi invasion via the neo-cons' influence. By taking Iraq and Iran as case studies of US involvement in the Middle East, this study will elaborate on the role of the aforementioned two actors, especially under the policies of the Georges W. Bush administration. The Obama administration's policies of engagement and multilateralism, a clear departure from the policies of the previous administration, must have weighed heavily against the influential role played by the neo-cons and AIPAC in the Bush Administration. What are the neo-cons prospects under the current Obama administration and what are the means available for AIPAC in hindering Obama's diplomatic initiatives in the Middle East are the main concerns of the thesis too. Indeed, one can argue within reason that in operating at the level of no state actors, the Israeli Lobby and supporters of the Israeli state were pivotal in driving the U.S. invasions of Afghanistan and Iraq. The chief protagonists orchestrating U.S. policy are the neo-conservatives and AIPAC, which can be considered the backbone of the Israeli Lobby. At present, one is uncertain what can be done given the lobby's power. While success remains far from being guaranteed, the real challenge will be a balanced approach, especially when it comes to incorporating Israel's interests within the realm of U.S. foreign policy in the region. Although Obama's approach shows a clear departure from that under Bush, with a tendency toward multilateralism and engagement as echoed in his Cairo speech, many fear the new president will remain subject and victim to the Israeli Lobby's pressure. The current debate around whether or not to exert new sanctions on Iran should be telling of what is left to come.1 bound copy: [4], 87 leaves; 30 cm. available at RNL