Feb 17 • 17:01 UTC 🇶🇦 Qatar Al Jazeera

Can Israel give up American military aid? Answers from Washington

The article discusses whether Israel can afford to stop relying on U.S. military assistance amid ongoing conflicts and financial support debates.

The article addresses the long-standing military support that the United States has provided to Israel since 1984, with total assistance amounting to approximately $189 billion, excluding inflation adjustments according to Congressional Research Service data. It also highlights that, after adjusting for inflation, the total assistance could be estimated around $313 billion. Since the onset of the recent conflict on October 7, 2023, the U.S. has delivered between $16.3 billion to $21.7 billion in military aid, including missiles, ammunition, air defense systems, helicopters, fighter jets, and spare parts.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has recently expressed his desire to cease reliance on American military aid, suggesting a phased reduction of the current support of $3.8 billion annually, potentially leading to a total cessation by 2028. Netanyahu's assertion comes amidst international scrutiny and his position as a war crimes suspect in Gaza, adding a controversial layer to his statements about aid cessation. The context of such claims is significant, as they reflect Israel's ongoing military and political dynamics with the U.S. and the implications for future Israeli defense strategies.

The discussion surrounding Israel's ability to survive without U.S. military support raises critical questions regarding its defense capabilities and geopolitical stance in the region. Analysts and experts debate the feasibility of this transition, considering the historical dependency on U.S. military resources. Should Israel follow through with a reduction of U.S. support, it could lead to a substantial shift in its defense posture and its relationships with both allies and adversaries in the Middle East.

📡 Similar Coverage