Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene’s proposed amendment targeted
$500 million in U.S. military aid allocated to Israel under the
Israeli Cooperative Programs, which primarily fund
missile defense systems. Here's a breakdown of what that aid typically covers:
Breakdown of the $500 Million Aid Package
This funding is part of a long-standing U.S.-Israel defense partnership and is separate from the annual $3.8 billion in broader security assistance. The $500 million is specifically earmarked for
missile defense cooperation, which includes:
| Program Name | Purpose | Estimated Allocation |
|---|
| Iron Dome | Short-range missile interceptor system to protect civilians from rockets | ~$100–150 million |
| David’s Sling | Medium-range missile defense system for intercepting tactical ballistic missiles | ~$150–200 million |
| Arrow 3 | Long-range ballistic missile interceptor, including threats from Iran | ~$100–150 million |
| Joint R&D & Testing | Collaborative research, development, and testing of new technologies | ~$25–50 million |
These figures are estimates based on past appropriations and defense budget documents. The exact breakdown can vary year to year depending on strategic priorities and technological upgrades.
Legislative Context
Greene’s amendment was part of the
FY2026 Defense Appropriations Bill and was overwhelmingly rejected in the House by a
422–6 vote. She argued that Israel, being a
nuclear-armed nation, is capable of self-defense and that U.S. taxpayers shouldn’t foot the bill for additional aid.
Broader Funding Landscape
In addition to this $500 million:
- The U.S. provides $3.8 billion annually in foreign military financing to Israel
- A 2024 supplemental package added $8.7 billion for Israel’s defense, including upgrades to Iron Dome, David’s Sling, and Iron Beam systems