Trump to End $4B Military Aid to Israel by Year's End 2026

President Donald Trump announced on election day that the United States will end military aid to Israel by the end of this year, cutting nearly $4 billion in assistance. The surprise move, revealed in a phone interview with Fox News, signals a major shift in US foreign policy and could reshape Middle East alliances.

Why Trump Is Ending Military Aid to Israel

Trump said the decision was made because Israel "doesn't need" the aid and that it had become a political liability. He claimed the aid would be replaced by arms sales to Israel instead.

"We were giving them $4bn … But it gets cut off at the end of the year," Trump said. He also indicated that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had approached him about ending the aid, and that they had been discussing it for a couple of years.

Netanyahu's Role in the Decision

According to Trump, Netanyahu proposed the abrupt ending of aid. "I was approached by Bibi Netanyahu, and we've been talking about it for a couple of years because it's a lot of money," Trump said.

Netanyahu had previously suggested tapering off US military aid over the next decade, but Trump's announcement significantly accelerates that timeline. The move comes amid ongoing tensions in the Middle East and the war in Gaza.

Political Motivations Behind the Announcement

The timing of the announcement—on election day—suggests it was aimed at voters skeptical of US support for Israel. Trump referenced criticism from Michigan Democrat Abdul El-Sayed, saying, "Why should we suffer the slings from lunatics like El-Sayed when they don't need it? It's a bad talking point."

This indicates that domestic politics, particularly among progressive voters, played a role in the decision. The move could appeal to those who oppose unlimited military aid to Israel.

Impact on US-Israel Relations

The US has long been Israel's largest military supporter, providing billions in aid annually. Ending this aid could strain bilateral ties and alter the balance of power in the region.

However, Trump suggested that arms sales would continue, potentially maintaining defense cooperation. The shift from aid to sales could change the financial dynamics and oversight of US support.

What to Watch Next

Key questions remain: Will Congress approve the end of aid? How will Israel respond? And what will be the reaction from other allies and adversaries in the Middle East?

The announcement is likely to spark debate in Washington and beyond, with implications for US credibility and global security. The background to this story is set out in Business: latest articles.

• Trump announced the end of nearly $4B in military aid to Israel by year's end.
• He claims Netanyahu requested the move and that aid will be replaced by arms sales.
• The timing on election day suggests political motivations, targeting skeptical voters.
• The decision could strain US-Israel relations and alter Middle East dynamics.
• Congressional approval and international reactions are key unknowns.