Why Israel Should Fund Its Own War-Fighting Executive Summary

Dr. Raphael BenLevi argues for transitioning the Israel-U.S. relationship from “patronage to partnership” by phasing out the military grant model that has existed since the 1970s. He contends that this shift would incentivize Israel to rebuild its independent munitions manufacturing base, thereby reducing strategic dependency and earning greater respect from Washington as a self-reliant ally. 

The full interview took place on Channel I24 on January 11, 2026.

https://youtu.be/ptw5k9R0B0U