Chicago – March 29, 2026
How can a country of just 9 million people have such a grip on the world’s biggest superpower? The answer lies in a durable mix of military aid, lobbying, strategy, and domestic politics that has made U.S. support for Israel one of Washington’s most consistent foreign-policy commitments.
Military Aid
Since the October 7, 2023 attack and the war in Gaza, the United States has enacted at least $16.3 billion in direct military aid to Israel, according to the Council on Foreign Relations, while the Associated Press reported total military aid spending at a record $17.9 billion by October 2024. Under a 10-year memorandum of understanding signed in 2016, the U.S. also committed to providing Israel $3.8 billion annually through 2028.
Why It Stays Strong
A large share of that aid is tied to U.S. defense procurement, meaning American weapons firms benefit when Israel receives funding. Critics argue this creates a powerful feedback loop: congressional support, defense contracts, and election-year pressure reinforce one another. Pro-Israel groups such as AIPAC remain highly active in U.S. elections, spending millions and backing candidates who support a strong U.S.-Israel relationship.
Strategic and Domestic Factors
Support for Israel is also sustained by broader strategic interests. U.S. officials have long viewed Israel as a key ally in a volatile Middle East, especially on intelligence, deterrence, and missile defense. Evangelical Christian support adds another layer, giving the issue a strong religious and political base in American domestic life.
Political Debate
The result is a relationship that goes far beyond traditional foreign aid. For supporters, it reflects alliance and security. For critics, it shows how deeply money, ideology, and influence can shape U.S. policy.
