Issue Position: Securing Aid for Israel

Issue Position

In 2008, the US and Israeli governments announced a new ten year aid program that will ensure that Israel retains an edge in military strength over its adversaries. Under this new arrangement, aid will be increased from the $2.4 billion provided in military assistance in 2008 to an average $3 billion per year over the ten years. I am pleased to report that Congress has provided $3.075 billion in security assistance for Israel as part of a larger spending package for 2012. While it will be necessary to trim federal spending in many areas, including on foreign and security programs, I am fighting to continue full funding of our assistance to Israel. Israel typically spends most of its aid buying US-made items. The aid helps Israel meet its security needs in the face of unprecedented rising threats in the region, including from Iran, Hezbollah, and Hamas.

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