In this critical evaluation, Robert Rabil analyzes the triangular U.S.–Israel–Syria relationship beginning after the Gulf War, revealing how American policy lacked coherence and failed to produce meaningful progress. He demonstrates that U.S. efforts oscillated between appeasing Israeli security concerns and seeking Syrian engagement, ultimately satisfying neither party. Rabil argues that this inconsistent strategy not only undermined Washington’s credibility in the region but also forfeited opportunities for stability and diplomacy. His nuanced study offers a cautionary lesson: without clear objectives and consistent effort, even well-funded diplomacy can prove ineffectual.