Israel, U.S. to embark on largest joint exercise in allies' history

The U.S. has a $3 billion per year commitment to Israel, which [US Assistant Secretary for Foreign Affairs] Shapiro said the Obama Administration would continue to honor over the next ten years, "even in challenging budgetary times".

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"We support Israel because it is in our national interests to do so," said Shapiro, echoing the recent report by the Washington Institute for Near East Policy, entitled, "Israel: A Strategic Asset for the United States", which argues that Israel is a strategic asset to the U.S. "If Israel were weaker, its enemies would be bolder. This would make broader conflict more likely, which would be catastrophic to American interests in the region. It is the very strength of Israel’s military which deters potential aggressors and helps foster peace and stability."

Source: Haaretz