Trump halts Israel military aid by 2026, sparking security concerns

President Donald Trump announced the United States will halt billions in annual military aid to Israel by the end of 2026, a move that has alarmed Israelis and raised concerns about security vulnerability amid ongoing multi-front conflicts. The $3.8 billion annual aid package, mostly spent on American-made weapons, was expected to continue through 2028 under a memorandum of understanding. Israeli officials expressed surprise at the abrupt timeline, though Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office framed the shift as a transition from aid to partnership, with Ambassador Mike Huckabee confirming the change was jointly agreed upon. Opposition lawmakers called the decision a major mistake, warning of budget shortfalls and disrupted defense collaborations. Analysts noted the announcement coincided with US midterm elections and Israeli coalition talks, while some critics suggested the aid may be reprogrammed as joint defense projects rather than truly eliminated.