The Heritage Foundation backs phasing out Israel aid to ‘reduce US leverage’

A recent report from the conservative Heritage Foundation has sparked controversy by calling for the U.S. to phase out direct aid to Israel in favor of a “strategic partnership.” The report, authored by Victoria Coates, a former deputy national security advisor to President Donald Trump, argues that the best way to support Israel is to reduce U.S. leverage over the country.

Coates explains that the goal is not to leave Israel at the mercy of U.S. policymakers who can withhold aid, but rather to foster a strong partnership based on mutual trust and cooperation. The current memorandum of understanding, which provides Israel with $3.8 billion in military financing per year, is set to be renegotiated in 2026. Heritage proposes a new MOU that increases aid to $4 billion from 2029-2032, with a gradual decrease until it ends in 2047.

While the idea of phasing out military aid to Israel has faced backlash from some pro-Israel advocates, others, like Jonathan Schanzer from the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, support the notion of reevaluating the relationship between the U.S. and Israel. Schanzer argues that Israel should not be left begging for assistance and that a discussion about the country’s reliance on the U.S. is necessary.

Coates emphasizes that the plan is non-controversial among Israeli officials and aims to establish a more equal footing between the U.S. and Israel. The report suggests increasing spending on joint programs and defense capabilities, as well as enhancing intelligence sharing and cybersecurity partnerships. It also calls for conditioning aid to Palestinians on deradicalization and disengagement programs.

Despite the criticism, Coates believes that focusing on the substance of the issues at hand is more important than engaging in a circular firing squad. The ultimate goal is to strengthen the relationship between the U.S. and Israel, ensuring a secure and prosperous future for both nations.