Golan warns of deepening US-Israel crisis over aid cuts

Yair Golan, leader of the Israeli Democrats party, warned on Friday that ties with Washington face a deepening crisis. He cited planned reductions in American military support and growing distance from the US Democratic Party as key factors driving this deterioration.

Reports indicated that Israel’s Finance Ministry did not know about Washington's intent to stop military help until Trump made his announcement. This lack of prior notification surprised officials who had relied on steady funding streams for future defense planning needs.

The annual sum of $3.8 billion was expected to fund defense budgets significantly in 2027 and 2028. These funds were viewed as a critical component for maintaining military readiness and operational capabilities during those specific fiscal years ahead.

Netanyahu’s office responded to criticism by noting that such aid historically had bipartisan backing in America. Officials described the policy change as a shift from direct assistance to a broader partnership model rather than an end to cooperation.

Golan connected these diplomatic challenges with Israel’s internal political instability after the Oct. 27 elections. He argued that domestic fragmentation weakens the state’s position in international negotiations and complicates efforts to maintain strong alliances abroad.

The opposition Change Bloc is advancing efforts to form a national emergency government, Golan stated. Election results gave Netanyahu’s bloc 53 seats, Jewish opposition parties 48, and Arab-led lists 19, with the latter recommending Eisenkot in consultations.