Why does Israel want to become more dependent on US weapons? | | War Stories

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says he is grateful to the United States for military aid, but it is time for Israel to develop its own weapons.

His announcement comes as tensions grow over the US-Iran peace deal, and as Israel’s weapons demands increase.

Israel’s decades of occupation and genocide in Gaza allow them to market its products as “war-certified”.

And business is booming. Arms sales to Israel topped $19bn last year. Supporters say this strengthens the country’s ability to stand on its own.

However, independence is problematic.

Can Israel afford to lose its greatest ally?

Presenter: Folly Bah Thibault

Guests:

Alexandre Vautravers – Safety and security expert

Michael Mulroy – US Deputy Assistant Secretary for the Middle East

Antony Loewenstein – Author of The Palestine Laboratory