Recanati-Kaplan Talks
SAPIR Debates

Would Israel be Better Off Without American Aid?

Michael Oren and Jonathan Schanzer with Bret Stephens

Oct 19, 2026

For decades, American aid has been treated as an untouchable pillar of the US-Israel relationship, but much has changed since the attacks of October 7 and Israel’s ensuing war against Hamas.

Has dependence on Washington constrained Israel’s freedom of action, distorted its economy, and encouraged strategic complacency? Or does U.S. assistance make Israel stronger, safer, and more prosperous than it could ever be alone? As geopolitical realities shift and both countries confront new challenges, it’s time to ask a question once considered heretical: Would Israel be better off without American aid?

This program is part of 92NY Recanati-Kaplan Talks.
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