US Ambassador Seeks to Soften JD Vance's Criticism, Highlights Mutual US-Israel Benefits

Twelve days after US Vice President JD Vance highlighted that two-thirds of Israel's homeland defense equipment in the past three months was produced by American hands and funded by US taxpayers, US Ambassador to Israel Mike Herzog appeared to moderate Vance's sharp remarks. Speaking at the Herzliya Conference on Tuesday, Herzog emphasized the reciprocal nature of the US-Israel relationship. "Some say the US only does things for Israel, but Israel does a lot for us as well, and I am grateful," Herzog stated. He cited technological developments in agriculture and intelligence sharing as examples of Israel's contributions. Herzog added, "This relationship helps millions of Americans, and I hope it benefits you as much as it benefits us," during his speech at Reichman University. He concluded by blessing both nations on the occasion of the United States' 250th Independence Day.