As criticism of US military support for Israel reaches unprecedented levels, leaders on the Israeli and US right are proposing a transformation of the "special relationship." Rather than relying on traditional military aid, they envision integrating Israel more deeply into the US military-industrial complex and turning Israel into a “Super Sparta.” The aim is to insulate the Israeli regime from international pressure to end its ongoing genocide and occupation. In doing so, Israel’s relationship with the US would shift from dependence to deeper symbiosis.

What would this integration actually look like? Can Israel produce enough of its own weapons, technology, and military infrastructure to sustain its occupation and wars while insulating itself from growing international pressure? Or do its military industries remain fundamentally dependent on foreign financing, procurement, and political support? Most importantly, how would these strategic shifts impact the pro-Palestine movement?

Lara Friedman is the president of the Foundation for Middle East Peace.

Antony Loewenstein is a journalist, writer, and filmmaker based in Sydney. He is the author of The Palestine Laboratory: How Israel Exports the Technology of Occupation Around the World (2023).

Tariq Kenney-Shawa is Al-Shabaka's US Policy Fellow and co-host of Al-Shabaka's Policy Lab series. He holds a master's degree in international affairs from Columbia University. 

About the Policy Lab Program: Al-Shabaka's Policy Lab Program is an online live-stream space where audiences can engage directly with expert analysts from our nearly 200-member network as they craft policies and strategies related to Palestine. The labs are free and open for public participation, inviting viewers to join in on policy discussions.

Note: This discussion will take place in English. Our policy labs are supported through the generosity of donors. They are free to attend, though we accept contributions on a sliding scale upon registration to help sustain the program.

Support our Policy Lab Program

Our policy labs are free to the public. To make a donation while registering, please select the "Support our Policy Lab Program" option.

The Future of US Aid to Israel: From Military Assistance to Integration