Herzog claims: "The suspension of American aid caught us by surprise"

President Isaac Herzog said that the suspension of American aid caught him by surprise, following Trump's announcement that the $4 billion annual aid package would end by 2026. Netanyahu's circle supports the move as a "strategic opportunity."

President Isaac Herzog said today (Thursday) that the suspension of American security aid to Israel caught him by surprise. The remarks were made during faction meetings at the President's Residence, following U.S. President Donald Trump's announcement that the annual $4 billion aid package would end by 2026. Trump emphasized that the move is coordinated with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and that Israel no longer needs the aid funds. Netanyahu's circle and experts support this line, viewing it as a strategic opportunity to reduce political dependence on the U.S. and strengthen local defense industries.