Ex-Envoy Warns Trump Aid Cut Forces Israel to Rethink US Ties

Former Israeli Ambassador to the US, Michael Oren, has warned that President Donald Trump's decision to prematurely end military aid to Israel presents Jerusalem with a complex choice, potentially jeopardizing not only financial and military support but also crucial international diplomatic protection. Oren stated on 103FM radio that Trump's announcement came about two years before the current military aid memorandum expires. Trump claimed the decision was based on a recommendation from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Oren believes that aid to Israel has become a tool in US domestic politics, especially with upcoming elections. He stressed that Israel should have been preparing for a potential end to US aid for some time, as the idea of a ten-year transition from aid to partnership is no longer realistic. Oren also pointed to the shifting political landscape in the US Congress, noting that a Democratic majority could bring the issue of aid termination back to the agenda, potentially affecting intelligence cooperation as well as military supplies. He expressed concern over changing attitudes towards Israel within American society and the Democratic Party, citing the growing influence of the Muslim population in states like Michigan and noting that a third of New York's Jewish voters supported a specific candidate. Oren also downplayed the influence of the pro-Israel lobby AIPAC, acknowledging its presence but not its dominance. Despite these concerns, Oren argued that cutting aid contradicts US strategic interests, as Israel is a key ally capable of direct combat and possesses military technology that enhances US security. He highlighted the potential weakening of Israel's diplomatic shield at the UN, where US veto power in the Security Council has been vital. Oren questioned the logic of ending aid as part of a political deal, especially during wartime, and expressed concern over potential Israeli military-tech cooperation with China, a move the US has signaled would force Israel to choose between the two powers. He recalled his past opposition to certain aid memorandum terms that restricted Israel's arms choices and sales, and noted that Israel has faced limitations on selling military products to China. Oren concluded that the current situation necessitates a reevaluation of the US-Israel cooperation model and an accelerated shift towards greater Israeli self-reliance.