How will US-Israel military deal affect Middle East?
The US signs a record $38bn deal to provide Israel with military assistance over a 10-year period.
Israel will receive the biggest US military aid ever given to any country.
The $38bn deal is signed four months before US President Barack Obama leaves office, ensuring some certainty for Israeli politicians before the next president is sworn in.
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Obama’s aides see the weapons deal as an important part of his legacy.
Critics of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu say he could have secured more money if he had a better relationship with the White House.
Despite that, the message to Israel’s enemies is clear: The US remains a major supporter and will continue to be well into the future.
Should Israel still get so much military aid from the United States?
Presenter: Adrian Finighan
Guests:
Yossi Mekelberg – professor of international relations at Regent’s University
Mouin Rabbani – co-editor of Jadaliyya online magazine
Thomas Pickering – former US ambassador to Israel