Dear Haim:

I carefully reviewed the material. In general, it is comprehensive, thoughtful and covers virtually all relevant dimensions. Here are my specific comments:

1. Team 1:

a. The reference to the concept of "being an American" is too general. It should be juxtaposed with NOT being a Europeans(i.e.,the absence of a colonial tradition).

b. In referring to political parties, it should be emphasized that there are significant differences inside each party, and that they do not comprise a monolithic body of ideas. Hence, the whole idea of the political game is based on the notion of forming ad-hoc coalitions between groups of Republicans and Democrats on specific issues, and regardless of any ideological differences between them.

2. Team 2:

a. The challenges addressed do not remain constant. They tend to vary according to the circumstances (particularly these days).

b. I would be a bit more specific regarding the current ME strategy, and mention its main components, which are: a focused and targeted containment , deterrence and coercions of such threats as ISIS and Iran; the delineation of clear red lines (i.e., by Asad), the crossing of which would lead to a military retaliation, but without committing ground troops to engage in regional or local conflicts, and the upgrading of the U.S.prestige, credibility and signaling reputation.

3. Team 3:

a. It should be poited out that the decision-making process today is still in flux, with continued skirmishes over power and responsibility. The division of power is still not very clear despite the increasing dominance of Mattis at the top.

4. Team 4:

a. A specific reference should be made to the broad, and continued, margin of public support for Israel in American public opinion and in the Congress. This support has been a major constraint upn successive U.S. administrations that attempted to exert pressure on Israel. I would also add that part of this support has been based on ideological and value considerations, such as the perceived similarity between American and Israeli societies in terms of ethos, legacy, history, culture and ideology.

For your consideration.

See you on Sunday,

Avi B.Z.

אבי שלום,
בהמשך לשיחתנו רצ"ב השקפים המתארים את המטלה הקבוצתית שעל שכל צוות להגיש בתום הסיור בארה"ב.

אודה על הערותיך.

בתודה ויום טוב,

חיים