United States Allocates $8.7 Billion to Bolster Israel's Military Operations in the Middle East

The United States recently passed legislation providing $8.7 billion in military aid to Israel to support its ongoing military operations in the Middle East. This move continues the United States’ long-standing commitment to Israel and reflects shared interests and a strong partnership in this strategically important and volatile region.

Historical Background: U.S.-Israel Relations and Economic Aid

Since Israel’s founding in 1948, the U.S. has been its most significant international supporter. The U.S. was the first nation to recognise Israel's provisional government and has provided it with substantial economic and military assistance over the decades. Adjusted for inflation, it is estimated that the U.S. has given Israel approximately $310 billion in total aid since World War II.

From 1971 to 2007, a significant portion of this support came in the form of economic aid aimed at helping Israel grow its economy. However, since 2007, nearly all U.S. assistance has been directed towards bolstering Israel’s military capabilities, helping it establish the most advanced military force in the region, largely due to continued U.S. support.

Current Military Aid and Recent Developments

In 2016, the United States and Israel signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), agreeing to provide Israel with $38 billion in military aid over a ten-year period, running until 2028. This includes $33 billion in Foreign Military Financing (FMF), which Israel uses to purchase U.S. military equipment and services, and $5 billion for joint missile defence projects.

Amid rising tensions and conflict with the Palestinian militant group Hamas, particularly since the October 7, 2023, attacks, the U.S. decided to increase its aid. In March 2024, Congress passed a bill allocating $3.8 billion to Israel for the year, as per the existing MOU. Following intensified conflict, an additional $8.7 billion was approved through supplemental appropriations in April 2024, bringing the total U.S. military aid to Israel in 2024 to over $12.5 billion.

How Israel Utilises This Aid

The majority of the $33 billion provided through FMF is used by Israel to acquire advanced U.S. military equipment, such as fighter jets, missile systems, and defence technologies. This funding constitutes approximately 15% of Israel’s defence budget.

Moreover, the $500 million per year allocated to joint missile defence projects supports the development and maintenance of systems like the Iron Dome, David’s Sling, and Arrow II missile systems. The Iron Dome, which is widely recognised for intercepting short-range rockets and missiles, was developed by Israel but co-produced with the U.S. since 2014. American defence contractor Raytheon, for example, manufactures the Tamir interceptor missiles for the Iron Dome at its Arizona facility.

U.S. aid is not just about providing funds; it is about enhancing collaboration on cutting-edge military technologies. These systems have played a crucial role in Israel's defence, particularly against missile attacks from Gaza and other hostile entities in the region.

International Context of Israel’s Military Actions

The October 7, 2023, attack by Hamas, which resulted in the deaths of around 1,200 Israelis, marked one of the deadliest events in Israel’s history. In response, Israel has launched extensive military operations in Gaza, targeting Hamas and other militant groups. According to the United Nations and Gaza’s health ministry, over 34,000 Palestinians, many of them civilians, have been killed since the conflict began.

Against this backdrop, U.S. military aid is seen as essential for Israel to sustain its military operations and defend itself from threats. The $8.7 billion aid package is aimed at reinforcing Israel’s military capacity and addressing immediate security needs amidst the ongoing conflict with Hamas.

Strategic Significance of U.S. Aid to Israel

Though the U.S. and Israel do not have a formal mutual defence treaty, as the U.S. has with its NATO allies, Israel holds a special status as a “major non-NATO ally”. This designation allows Israel access to some of the most advanced U.S. military technologies and platforms, reinforcing the two countries' close military and strategic relationship.

For the United States, supporting Israel is a key part of its broader Middle East policy. Israel is a central player in this strategically important region, and U.S. military aid helps ensure its security while promoting stability in the region. By maintaining Israel’s military strength, the U.S. seeks to counter threats from terrorist groups and hostile nations, furthering its own security interests in the region.

Conclusion

The $8.7 billion in U.S. military aid underscores the deep and enduring ties between the two countries. It highlights the U.S.’s commitment to Israel’s security at a time of heightened conflict, providing the resources Israel needs to defend itself against ongoing threats. This significant financial and military support will strengthen the U.S.-Israel alliance and maintain Israel’s military edge in a volatile region. The partnership between the two nations remains crucial for shaping the future of Middle Eastern stability and security.