Overview
- In an interview with The Economist, Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel will taper U.S. assistance to zero, framing the plan as a move toward greater self-reliance.
- The 2016 memorandum of understanding provides about $3.8 billion annually, largely for purchases of American-made weapons, and is scheduled to end in 2028.
- U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham welcomed the announcement and said he will propose accelerating the timeline to end U.S. assistance.
- Israel’s 2025 budget allocates a record NIS 110 billion to the Defense Ministry within a total defense budget of NIS 136 billion, signaling capacity to reduce dependence on U.S. aid.
- Netanyahu has denied late‑2025 reports that Israel sought a longer, 20‑year deal, as debate over the structure of post‑2028 support continues.