Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel must build an independent armaments production network and reduce its dependence on foreign military supplies, while speaking last week to reserve combat officer cadets in Gush Etzion.
“I want armaments independence,” he said. “I deeply appreciate the support we have received, and which I have also brought over the years, from our American friends. Today I say: We need our own independent armaments network. We must manufacture our own armaments.”
The prime minister said Israel’s long-term security would depend not only on weapons production, but also on technology and training future commanders.
Netanyahu’s remarks come amid growing concerns in Jerusalem that Washington may seek to limit Israel’s military options as it pursues its own regional diplomatic objectives.
AFSI Insight
It’s in Israel’s best interest to reduce its dependence on American military aid and build a stronger domestic defense industry. Israel’s security should never be contingent on the policies, priorities, or political shifts of any foreign government, including the United States.
Netanyahu’s call for an independent armaments network is an important step toward ensuring Israel’s freedom of action against threats from Iran, Hezbollah, Hamas, and other regional adversaries. While U.S.-Israel ties remain vital, Israel must maintain the ability to defend itself by itself—a principle that has guided Israeli security doctrine since the state’s founding.