US President Donald Trump has declared that Israel’s existence depends on American backing, saying the country would not survive without the support of the United States.
Speaking in a strongly worded statement, Trump said: “If it weren’t for the United States of America, Israel would not exist right now. Every smart person in Israel knows that.”
The remarks come amid continued debate over the depth of US military, financial and diplomatic support for Israel, a relationship that has long been central to Washington’s Middle East policy.
Trump, who has consistently portrayed himself as one of Israel’s strongest allies during and after his presidency, has repeatedly argued that US assistance has been indispensable to the country’s security and regional standing.
His latest comments are expected to fuel renewed discussion over the extent of American influence in the region and the future of US-Israel relations.
