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For decades, U.S. support for Israel has been justified as essential to protecting American interests in the Middle East. Yet today, that assumption no longer holds. Israel’s government routinely acts in ways that undermine U.S. diplomatic, security, and economic objectives, while expecting unconditional military and financial backing in return.
Israel has repeatedly ignored American requests to curb settlement expansion, ease humanitarian crises, or pursue meaningful peace negotiations. Its ongoing mistreatment of Palestinians — from collective punishment and mass displacement to the restriction of food, water, and medical supplies — has shocked much of the world and further alienated the United States from its allies. These actions have inflamed anti-American sentiment across the Arab world and complicated efforts to build regional stability — objectives that are central to our own national security.
Meanwhile, unconditional aid — over $3.8 billion annually — comes at a time when Americans face mounting domestic challenges. We continue to bankroll policies that make our world less safe and our nation less respected. An ally that disregards our interests and values cannot be treated as beyond accountability.
Being a friend doesn’t mean being a doormat. True allies respect our leadership and understand that U.S. support must advance U.S. interests first. Congress should reevaluate this relationship and make future aid to Israel strictly conditional on policies that serve America’s security, stability, and prosperity.
Michael Capeci
Bangor
