The Real Cost of War: US Military Aid to Israel and Operations in the Middle East
As the conflict in the Middle East escalates, the United States has spent a staggering $17.9 billion on military aid to Israel since the Gaza war began. This record-breaking expenditure, detailed in a report by Brown University’s Costs of War project, highlights the immense financial and human costs of the ongoing conflict.
Additionally, the US has allocated an additional $4.86 billion for intensified military operations in the region, including a Navy-led campaign to counter strikes on commercial shipping by Yemen’s Houthis. The toll on human lives is equally devastating, with nearly 42,000 killed in Gaza and over 2,000 in Lebanon since Israel’s expanded strikes.
Record military aid to Israel
Israel, a longstanding US ally, has received unprecedented levels of military aid, with $17.9 billion allocated since October 7 alone. This aid includes military financing, arms sales, and equipment replenishment.
US military operations in the Middle East
The Biden administration has bolstered military presence in the region to deter attacks on allies. The additional operations have cost at least $4.86 billion, with a focus on countering threats from the Houthis in Yemen.
The fight against the Houthis
The US military has faced a formidable challenge in countering the Houthi attacks, with significant resources deployed to protect vital trade routes and combat asymmetric threats. The escalating conflict has underscored the high cost of military operations in the region.