shalafi , 5 months ago (edited 5 months ago)

1. 8 wasn’t it? In any case, it may look performative from our living rooms, but diplomatically speaking, this is a strong rebuke. I know, sounds silly, but an American President signing an Executive Order spanking Israelis, in any way for any reason, is quite a thing. It’s a warning shot across the bow. Our government knows it, Israel knows it.

Kinda like when a diplomatic delegation says, “We strongly condemn…” That ain’t your neighbor mad about your fence line, that’s saying, “FAFO, war coming right up.” Words and actions have very, very, particular meanings in international affairs. People get master’s degrees and doctorates studying and practicing this. These are not playground fights.

2. Maybe? We can hope? How much of this spending is under direct control of the President? After all, Congress has the power of the purse. If Biden could control defense spending on a whim, why is he begging for aid to Ukraine? If he can do as he pleases…?
3. “and in 2019, the amount was raised again, now standing at a minimum of US $3.8 billion that the US is committed to providing Israel each year”

en.wikipedia.org/…/Israel–United_States_relations

www.foreignassistance.gov/cd/israel/

EDIT: As to #2, I should add: I’m aware America has a history of giving our President’s more and more, and more, military power. The President can roll aircraft carriers and troops, but direct spending? Someone help me out?