Why Is Israel Getting Millions of USD Tax-Free from Every State?

It is a popular misconception that Israel receives millions of dollars tax-free from every state in the United States. This belief is false. The reality is that Israel gets financial support from the U.S., primarily because it is an important ally in a region where the U.S. sees potential threats from adversarial states. However, most of this funding comes with conditions and is not tax-free.

Understanding the Nature of U.S. Aid to Israel

Israel's financial support from the U.S. is largely military aid. It often takes the form of military credits, which must be spent on purchasing American military products. These credits are not tax-free, as the term "tax-free" would imply that countries pay taxes to each other, which is not a real-world concept. Rather, the aid is used to keep Americans employed in the U.S. arms industry and to support Israel's defense capabilities.

The Misleading Myth of Reciprocal Blessings

There is another misleading concept often associated with Israel's funding, which claims that any nation that blesses Israel will be blessed in return. This idea comes from a misinterpretation of a biblical verse from Genesis 12:3, which reads as follows: "I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse. And all peoples on earth will be blessed through you."

This verse is often referenced by those who believe in reciprocal blessings, but it is important to note that it does not refer to financial or political support, but rather the blessing of God.

Historical Context: The Israel-Egypt Peace Treaty

Another common misconception is that Israel receives millions of USD tax-free from every state. In reality, the aid to Israel is a part of a broader agreement. Under the terms of the Israel-Egypt Peace Treaty of 1979, both Israel and Egypt agreed to receive financial aid from the United States. In the case of Israel, this aid is provided in the form of credits toward the purchase of military equipment from American arms manufacturers.

This mutual arrangement is not unique and is part of the broader geopolitical strategy of the United States to maintain a balance of power in the Middle East. The aid to Israel is a significant component of this strategy, but it should be understood within the context of a peace treaty and military alliance.

Conclusion

In summary, the funding from the U.S. to Israel is primarily military aid in the form of credits. These credits must be spent on American military products and are not tax-free. Any claims of reciprocal blessings or tax-free funding must be viewed critically and with a proper understanding of the historical and political context. The aid to Israel is a complex and multifaceted issue that requires a nuanced interpretation to avoid misconceptions and false beliefs.