US Congress Urged to Remove Section Deepening Tech Cooperation with Israel

Fifty-six human rights and civil society organizations in the United States have called on the leaders of the Congressional Armed Services Committees to remove a provision from the 2027 defense budget bill that aims to deepen technological and security cooperation between the U.S. and Israel. The provision, numbered 219, seeks to accelerate joint development of military technologies and facilitate joint ventures, licensing agreements, and manufacturing in the U.S. involving Israeli defense industries. The bill has already passed the House of Representatives and awaits Senate action.

The organizations, including Amnesty International USA and various Arab and Jewish groups, argued in a letter that increased integration with the Israeli defense industry would be "exceptionally dangerous," citing a decline in public support for Israel in the U.S. They also noted that some younger Republicans are increasingly critical of foreign aid, viewing Israel within that context.

This development comes as U.S. Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem in June. Greene introduced a resolution calling for preparations for a new model in U.S.-Israel relations after the current Memorandum of Understanding expires in 2028. Greene stated her intention was not to weaken but to deepen the partnership, emphasizing that "excellent partners" should continue to grow their relationship.

During their meeting, Netanyahu conveyed that Israel does not wish to be perceived as dependent on the United States. Greene quoted Netanyahu saying, "What Netanyahu explained is that he does not want the world to see Israel as dependent on the United States." She also highlighted Israel's significant growth in population and economy, noting its population is nearing ten million and its economy approaches a trillion dollars.

Greene acknowledged the changing American public opinion, including within parts of the Republican right. She mentioned that her younger constituents who oppose foreign aid often include Israel in that category. Greene suggested that supporters of budget cuts should back the bill, while those supporting Israel should want the partnership to continue growing.