Israel fought the 1948 War for Independence without any help from the USA. At the time an arms embargo was put on Israel. The myth that Israel needs America to survive is just demoralizing to Jews. Israel appreciates America's support though sometimes it means Israel must appease their enemies and go into "Peace Talks".
Well, you believe whatever you want. The fact is that Israel would have little standing in the international community were it not for the leverage the United States provides.