I would encourage you to examine the role of Israel as America's lightening rod. It is my personal belief that America's leadership is very aware of the usefulness of Israel and at least sometimes postures accordingly.
Yes, Notice how the US strings along the Palestine problem, while not really moving forward towards a resolution, while at the same time Israel does not move in with their superior military and kill all belligerents. It is useful for the anger of the middle east to be concentrated at Israel first, and the US bribes and strong arms Israel into this role.