2013 Briefing Book - Print Version - Aipac

ISRAEL AT RISK
Why Israel Is at Risk—Key Principles
THE PURSUIT OF NUCLEAR WEAPONS: Iran is openly pursuing a nuclear weapons
capability, while Israel has exposed Syria’s clandestine efforts. Many other Middle
Eastern states are planning to acquire nuclear capabilities. Achievement of a
nuclear weapons capability by hostile regimes will pose an existential threat to
Israel. The international community, led by the United States, should take all
appropriate measures to prevent Iran’s acquisition of nuclear weapons.
THE SCOURGE OF TERRORISM: Israel faces a serious, growing challenge from radical
Islamist terrorist groups and their state sponsors, whose stated goal is to destroy
Israel. The United States should continue working with Israel to confront these
threats through defensive operations, increased homeland security cooperation and
efforts to disrupt terrorist financing and weapons smuggling.
THE GROWING MISSILE AND ROCKET ARSENAL: On a daily basis, Israelis face the
expanding reach, accuracy and number of rockets and advanced missiles that
can carry chemical, biological and nuclear weapons. The United States and Israel
should continue working on joint defense systems to defeat this threat.
TURMOIL IN THE ARAB WORLD: With a new regime in Egypt, chaos in Syria,
Hizballah dominating in Lebanon, and uncertainty in Jordan, Israel must now
tackle new threats while thwarting ongoing Palestinian terrorism and a looming
nuclear Iran.
THE DELEGITIMIZATION EFFORT: Israel routinely faces obstacles to its acceptance as
a legitimate nation and its very existence, unlike any other country on Earth. The
United States should continue playing a vital role in opposing efforts to impose
double standards on Israel and to deny Israel the basic right to defend its citizens.
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