Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said it is time for Israel to end its reliance on U.S. foreign aid, framing the move as part of a broader push for greater economic and strategic independence. In remarks focused on budget and security policy, Netanyahu argued that Israel should reduce dependence on external support while maintaining strong defense capabilities. He did not specify a timeline or exact mechanism for phasing out aid, instead emphasizing long‑term fiscal responsibility and self‑sufficiency. U.S. assistance to Israel has long been a cornerstone of bilateral relations, with annual security aid running in the billions of dollars. The statement signals a rhetorical shift but leaves open how much it will translate into concrete policy changes, especially given the intertwined nature of U.S.–Israel defense and political ties.
