Why Does the U.S. Support and Fund Israel So Much? | WSJ

About this Video

• Video Title: Why Does the U.S. Support and Fund Israel So Much? | WSJ
• Channel: The Wall Street Journal
• Speakers: Narrator, Bernie Sanders, other Senators (unidentified), Philip Jessup (archived footage), other speakers (archived footage)
• Duration: 00:08:52

Introduction

This Wall Street Journal video examines the history and current status of US military and financial aid to Israel, focusing on recent debates within the US Senate regarding the allocation and conditions of this aid in light of the October 2023 Hamas attacks. The video explores the historical context of the aid, the shift towards primarily military assistance, and the growing scrutiny and calls for greater accountability surrounding its use.

Key Takeaways

• Significant US Aid: The US provides substantial annual aid to Israel, totaling approximately $3.8 billion annually and exceeding aid given to any other country since World War II.
• Increased Scrutiny: Recent events have led to increased criticism and calls for conditions to be attached to US aid to Israel, particularly from the left wing of the Democratic Party. Senator Sanders' resolution to impose conditions on aid, though defeated, signifies a significant shift in the level of public scrutiny.
• Historical Context: US support for Israel dates back to 1948, initially with recognition of the state and later evolving into significant economic and then primarily military aid. The 1973 Yom Kippur War and the Camp David Accords are highlighted as pivotal moments shaping the relationship and aid.
• Military Assistance Focus: US aid has transitioned from primarily economic support to largely military assistance, focusing on maintaining Israel's qualitative military edge over its neighbors. This includes providing access to advanced US defense technology and offsetting military sales to neighboring countries.
• Bipartisan Support (Shifting): While aid to Israel historically enjoyed strong bipartisan support, the video notes a growing trend of questioning and conditional support, mainly within the Democratic Party.