US President Donald Trump announced that he has made an agreement with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to stop $4 billion in US funding to Israel by the end of this year. During an interview on Fox News, Trump stated that Israel no longer requires this funding and accused some Democrats of using it to criticize Republicans. He emphasized that while direct financial support will end, the US will still assist Israel if needed.
The specific funding Trump referred to was not clear, but a memorandum that currently provides $3.8 billion in military aid will expire in 2028, with discussions ongoing about future assistance. Trump mentioned that Israel can purchase whatever it needs from the US or Europe, highlighting the quality of American weapons.
Netanyahu has previously expressed a desire for Israel to reduce its dependence on US military support within a decade, aiming to shift from a recipient of aid to a partner. Public support for Israel among US voters, especially Democrats, has declined since the Gaza war began in 2023. Trump noted that the funding issue has been used by the left to signal unfairness, asserting that the payments would cease because Israel no longer requires them.
With information from Reuters
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