In an interview with CBS News, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced the country's intention to gradually phase out its military aid package from the United States. The Israeli leader said this process would take about ten years, but he wanted to begin it as soon as possible.

"I told President Trump this. I told our own people this. Their jaws dropped... I said, let's start now and do it over the next decade, in 10 years, but I want to start now." — Netanyahu said on the TV channel.

The Prime Minister clarified that Israel currently receives $3,8 billion annually from Washington under the current memorandum of understanding, which runs until 2028. Netanyahu also noted that this support has traditionally found support from both Democrats and Republicans in the US Congress.

The statement came after Netanyahu had previously expressed doubts about the need for such a burdensome financial aid, hinting that Israel's successful economy could cover the country's defense needs on its own, allowing the US to redirect funds to other priorities, including its own needs.