‘We need our own independent weapons-production system’:Netanyahu says Israel should ‘free’ itself from arms dependency on US

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said Israel must reduce its reliance on American military support and build an independent domestic weapons industry. He argued that self-sufficiency in defence production is crucial as Israel continues its confrontation with Iran and Iran-backed groups in the region. Speaking to reserve combat officers in Gush Etzion in the West Bank, Netanyahu said Israel should develop its own arms-manufacturing capabilities despite the support it has received from the United States. I greatly appreciate the support we have received — and that I have secured over the years — from our American friends. But today I say, we need our own independent weapons-production system. We must manufacture our own armaments. He added that Israel’s long-term security and strategic position would depend on strengthening its military capabilities and defence industry. Links move to conflict with Iran Referring to the ongoing confrontation with Iran and its regional allies, Netanyahu said Israel had inflicted significant damage on its adversaries but warned that the conflict was not over. “We are now confronting Iran and its proxies. We have struck them hard. It is not over yet, but it depends on our strength.” The Israeli leader said his government aims to further expand military capabilities, invest in advanced technologies and train future military commanders. Growing concerns over US policy Netanyahu’s remarks come amid increasing concerns in Jerusalem that future US policies could limit Israel’s operational freedom, particularly if Washington pursues a diplomatic arrangement with Iran that Israel opposes. While Netanyahu has previously supported a gradual reduction in US military aid over the next decade, his latest comments signal a stronger push towards defence self-reliance. US remains key security partner The statement follows comments by US Vice President JD Vance, who said last week that the United States had supplied and financed roughly two-thirds of the defensive weapons used by Israel in recent months. According to reports, US and Israeli officials are discussing a new 10-year security cooperation framework that would gradually transform the current aid-based relationship into a more reciprocal partnership. What it could mean If implemented, Netanyahu’s vision would mark a significant shift in Israel’s defence strategy, reducing dependence on foreign military assistance while expanding domestic production capabilities. The move is also likely to influence future US-Israel security ties and the broader balance of power in the West Asia. ​