Trump Announces End to US Aid for Israel by Year-End
Move contradicts original 2028 aid package expiration, citing Netanyahu's alleged proposal amid US midterm election pressures.
Carla Rooney
Donald Trump stated that US aid to Israel will cease by the end of the year.
The announcement came during a phone interview on election day. This move would alter the current $3.8 billion annual military aid package, set to expire in 2028.
Trump claims he struck an agreement with Benjamin Netanyahu to cut the aid. He further stated Netanyahu initiated the conversation about ending American financial support, with Netanyahu reportedly telling Trump, "I think it would be appropriate if we do not receive aid."
I think it would be appropriate if we do not receive aid.
Trump also claims Netanyahu understands US aid is "one of their points of contention." He asserts Israel does not need financial support from Washington. An additional $500 million provided for joint missile defense programs would also be affected.
Despite the proposed cut, Trump claims the US would still assist Israel if needed. Israel’s prime prime minister, according to Trump, proposed this ending of aid.
The announcement comes amid declining US public support for aid to Israel. Trump faces political pressure during the US midterm elections. Netanyahu previously expressed a desire to transition from an aid recipient to a partner.
JD Vance previously stated Israel's foreign policy involves trying to 'kill your way out of solving every single national security problem.' Abdul El-Sayed, a Michigan Democrat, currently runs against Republican Mike Rogers for a Senate seat.