Media Wire Express Correspondent
U.S. President Donald Trump has stated that he might not reduce tariffs on Israeli imports citing the billions of dollars in aid the United States already provides to Israel each year.
Speaking during a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at Mar-a-Lago in Florida, Trump was clear: while he acknowledged the strong ties between the two nations, he emphasized that the U.S. gives “$4.5 billion a year” to Israel, and that generosity plays a role in shaping his stance on trade.
“We give Israel billions each year. They’re doing very well at defending themselves. And we’ll see what happens with the tariffs,” Trump said in a tone that suggested the current trade policy is unlikely to change soon.
This position came as a response to Prime Minister Netanyahu’s appeal to eliminate Israel’s trade deficit with the U.S. and remove barriers that make it harder for American products to enter the Israeli market. Netanyahu stressed the need for fair trade and promised reforms in how Israel handles U.S. goods, particularly in agriculture and manufacturing sectors.
Despite these pledges, Trump maintained a guarded approach. “You want to talk about removing tariffs? Let’s first talk about the billions we send over every year,” he added.
The issue of tariffs was only one part of a much broader and more serious conversation between the two leaders. The crisis in Gaza also took center stage, with Netanyahu briefing Trump on ongoing Israeli military operations and efforts to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas. The Israeli leader voiced hope for a new agreement that could see more captives freed.
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Trump, on the other hand, took the opportunity to touch on another high-stakes issue: Iran’s nuclear program. He confirmed that the U.S. has re-entered direct nuclear talks with Tehran, warning that Iran would face severe consequences if negotiations fall through. Netanyahu expressed conditional support for diplomatic solutions, but reiterated Israel’s firm opposition to any outcome that allows Iran to obtain nuclear weapons.
Meanwhile, back in Washington and Tel Aviv, Trump’s stance on tariffs has sparked debate. Some U.S. analysts argue that military aid and trade policy should not be so tightly linked. In Israel, concern is growing over how these tariffs might impact the country’s tech exports, which have been a vital part of its economy.
Still, Trump seems unmoved by the criticism. His comments suggest a transactional view of foreign aid—one where support comes with expectations, and nothing is off the negotiating table.
Whether this signals a shift in how future administrations may handle trade and diplomacy with longtime allies like Israel remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: Trump’s message was blunt, and the world was listening.
