2013 Briefing Book - Print Version - Aipac

WHY ISRAEL MATTERS
What Congress Has Done to Strengthen U.S.-Israel
Strategic Cooperation
Funded Key U.S.-Israel Defense Programs. For the past two decades, Congress has
funded key missile defense programs, including the Arrow anti-ballistic missile
program, which is the centerpiece of the U.S.-Israel cooperative defense relationship,
and Iron Dome, which defends against shorter-range missiles, rockets and mortars.
Congress also has allocated key funds for David’s Sling, a short-range ballistic missile
defense system, jointly developed by the United States and Israel.
Allowed Israel to Spend a Portion of U.S. Assistance Locally. By permitting a portion
of U.S. security assistance funds to be spent locally in Israel (known as offshore
procurement), the United States is enabling Israel’s industries to develop and procure
the types of innovative advanced technologies that are uniquely appropriate to the
wide range of strategic challenges and military threats it faces—thus boosting its
qualitative edge and defense deterrence. This flexibility in permitting a sophisticated
security partner such as Israel to designate a portion of U.S. security assistance to
areas where the funds will produce the most “bang for the buck” also indirectly
benefits American defense needs when the Pentagon in turn procures those same
systems from Israel to fill gaps in American military capabilities.
Designated Israel a Major Non-NATO Ally. In 1987, Congress designated Israel as a
major non-NATO ally. This designation paved the way for significant joint U.S.-
Israeli research and development programs and other close cooperation during the
past 26 years.
Backed Expansion of U.S.-Israel Homeland Security Cooperation. In 2007, Congress
passed legislation to strengthen homeland security ties between the United States and
key allies, including Israel. The Promoting Anti-Terrorism Cooperation Through
Technology and Science (PACTS) Act created an Office of International Cooperation
within the Science and Technology Directorate of the Department of Homeland
Security. Israel was one of five countries mentioned in the bill as an international
partner in homeland security.
In 2012, Congress passed the U.S.-Israel Security Enhancement Act, which calls on
both countries to enhance defense cooperation and to cooperate on maritime and
border security as well as cyber security.
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