[Sohei]

Thanks for the clarification. I certainly understand your point of view from that perspective. I have always considered Israel an ally based on their willingness to assist us and their lack of fighting against us militarily. As to their spying on us...I certainly don't blame them as I think "any" independent nation will spy on others whether they are friend or foe. We spy on everyone...so I don't get worked up when we are spied on...it's the nature of the beast. We do give them a lot of money, but I can think of a lot worse nations that we do so. When it comes to the ME...Israel is the least of my worries. Again, thanks for the clarification.