Aid to shrink, alliance to deepen: the new Israel-US model
According to a report in the New York Times, Congress is advancing legislation that would enshrine a new security and technological cooperation between the US and Israel, including a dedicated office at the Pentagon. Trump and Netanyahu are pushing for the change amid declining political support for aid. Opponents warn of harm to American sovereignty.
According to a report in the New York Times, the US Congress is advancing legislation that would enshrine a new security and technological cooperation between the US and Israel, replacing the traditional financial aid. President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu are pushing for the change amid a sharp decline in political support for transferring funds to Israel. The legislation, already incorporated into the defense budget passed by the House and awaiting Senate approval, would formalize partnerships like 'Iron Dome' and 'David's Sling', and create a dedicated office at the Pentagon. Republican Congressman Marlin Stutzman is advancing a resolution to end the current aid agreement expiring in 2028 and move to a model of 'mutual economic and defensive investment'. Opponents, including Democratic Senator Chris Van Hollen and Republican Thomas Massie, warn of harm to American sovereignty. Supporters of the law argue that the initiative will advance relations to an equal strategic partnership.