Netanyahu Warns Israel to Prepare for End of US Military Aid

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has warned that Israel must prepare for a future without US military aid, describing it as 'only a matter of time', Turkey's state-run news agency Anadolu Agency reported on Saturday.

He made these comments just days before parliamentary elections, speaking to Israel's business broadcaster Channel 10.

 Netanyahu stated that he has ordered preparations for potential economic and banking sanctions, including exploring alternative financial technologies. 

He cited growing opposition in the US to aid for Israel, particularly in light of the situation in Gaza and the treatment of Palestinians.

Netanyahu did not provide a specific date for the end of assistance but called for preparations for a possible future halt. He suggested that Israel must develop alternative economic and financial mechanisms to cope with potential sanctions, including banking sanctions. 

When asked about blockchain technology as an alternative, Netanyahu replied that it is 'one of the ways' and that he has already asked for a plan to be prepared.

Opposition leader Yair Golan criticized Netanyahu's remarks, accusing him of being detached from reality. Golan argued that preventing economic sanctions requires addressing issues such as 'Jewish terrorism' that damages Israel's international standing and preserving strategic alliances.

He also called for a new government without Netanyahu and other current ministers.

The current US-Israel aid agreement, signed in 2016, provides $38 billion in military assistance over a 10-year period, set to end in 2028.

 Netanyahu has previously advocated for reducing Israel's dependence on US military aid and strengthening its domestic defense industry.

Israel's relationship with its Western allies has been a topic of debate, particularly in the context of the ongoing situation in Gaza and the occupied territories.

The country faces criticism over its handling of the Palestinian issue, which has led to tensions with international partners.

The upcoming parliamentary elections are seen as critical for Israel's future direction, with various parties vying for power and offering different visions for the country's relations with the world.