New $38B Israeli aid deal signed

The United States and Israel have signed a 10-year memorandum of understanding that will grant the Israelis $38 billion in military aid between fiscal years 2019-2028, an increase over the current MOU, which covers $30 billion in aid, according to a White House statement.

The amount also includes $5 billion in missile defense assistance, or $500 million each year, but stipulates that Israel cannot accept congressionally appropriated increases.

"The multiyear missile defense commitment in the MOU will greatly facilitate long-term planning rather than missile defense assistance levels continuing to be appropriated year-to-year," the White House states.

Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-SC) has blasted the deal for shortchanging Israel and sidestepping Congress.

"While I think the agreement is important and deserving of respect, I have also made it very clear that Congress is not a party to this agreement nor is this agreement binding on future Congresses," he said in a statement Tuesday.

"I find it odd the MOU only allocates $500 million for missile defense starting in 2018 while Congress has recommended $600 million for missile defense this year," he continued. "Who really expects that in 2018 given provocative Iranian behavior, improved Iranian missile technology, and the chaotic situation in the Middle East – Israel's defense needs will require less investment?"

Meanwhile, the White House argues that "the $500 million in annual missile defense funding under the MOU exceeds the average level of non-emergency support the United States has provided to Israel for missile defense over the last five years," according to the statement. "In practical terms, the level of funding specified in the MOU will permit Israel to update the lion's share of its fighter aircraft fleet --including through the acquisition of additional F-35s -- increase its missile defense, and acquire other defense capabilities needed to meet its threat environment."