Ambitious alliance: Jordanian-American relations during the Cold War, 1945--1969

Jordan emerged as a key component of American-Middle East diplomacy during the period from 1945--1969. Initially viewed as a liability because of the precarious nature of its monarchy, the perception of Jordan in the United States gradually evolved to that of a moderate, pro-Western state in an area fraught with tension, radicalism and revolution. American officials increasingly depended on Jordan's leaders to serve as voices of moderation, compromise and pro-Western policies in the Middle East. In addition, the rulers of Jordan exploited their relationship with the United States to survive in spite of poor natural resources, domestic political strife and constant border warfare. King Hussein adeptly exploited the Soviet-American rivalry to gain increased economic and military support from the United States. Hussein's unique willingness to cooperate with both Israeli and Arab leaders gave him an expanded role in brokering Middle East peace. The extreme passions surrounding the Arab-Israeli dispute forced the king to develop distinctly different public and private personas. He visibly maintained solidarity with anti-Israeli Arab rhetoric, but secretly exhibited a willingness to make concessions in exchange for peace. Hussein proved to be a useful ally to the United States as his moderate regime served as a buffer between Israel and her more radical neighbors. However, American officials limited their support to a minimum amount required to sustain his regime, and failed to take advantage of Hussein's flexibility and pragmatism. By focusing on the Soviet threat, American officials tended to underestimate the long-term implications of other problems in the Middle East such as the conflict between Israel and Arab states.