Ask Haviv Anything Episode 73: Is military aid to Israel a good deal for America?
33 snips
Dec 30, 2025 The discussion explores whether U.S. military aid to Israel is beneficial for America. It highlights how much of the aid directly supports American defense industries, creating jobs. Comparisons show that aid dynamics differ between Israel and Europe. The podcast also examines Israel's own defense spending and suggests that cutting aid wouldn’t significantly impact its security. Additionally, the value of joint projects like the Iron Dome is emphasized, showcasing strategic ties that extend beyond mere financial transactions.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Aid Spends Back Into The US Economy
- Most of the $4 billion U.S. military aid to Israel must be spent on American-made equipment, returning money to the U.S. economy.
- Haviv Rettig Gur argues this creates American jobs and functions as a federal grant to U.S. manufacturers.
America Pays More For Global Defense
- The U.S. spends far more on defending allies through deployments than on direct cash aid to Israel.
- Haviv contrasts Israel's high self-defense spending with Europe's lower defense contributions and reliance on U.S. protection.
Cutting Aid Won't Break Israel Or US Access
- If you oppose the $4 billion aid, expect minimal strategic change: Israel will adapt by buying elsewhere.
- Haviv warns cutting the aid won't meaningfully alter Israel's survival or U.S. access to technology.