Israeli officials across multiple state departments were left unprepared by Donald Trump’s declaration halting U.S. financial support. Although the Finance Ministry recognized a broader goal to eventually conclude the program, personnel were astonished by the decision to end it without delay. Furthermore, treasury staff confirmed they had received no formal documentation regarding the termination from the Prime Minister's Office. Defense Ministry and military figures were similarly caught off guard by the abrupt cut to the assistance.
Key points
Israeli defense and financial institutions were completely unprepared for the immediate c…: Israeli defense and financial institutions were completely unprepared for the immediate cessation of American assistance.
Internal communication broke down between the Prime Minister’s Office and major ministrie…: Internal communication broke down between the Prime Minister’s Office and major ministries prior to the public announcement.
Government personnel anticipated a long-term conclusion of aid but did not expect an inst…: Government personnel anticipated a long-term conclusion of aid but did not expect an instant halt.
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This is an entry from: Live: Trump says US 'not looking to kill lots of people' in Iran
More on Israeli officials’ reaction to Trump’s announcement on US aid
3 November 2026 19:32 GMT
Israeli officials in the Finance Ministry said on Tuesday they were surprised by Trump’s announcement, the Times of Israel reported, citing the Walla news site.
“No formal document was submitted from the Prime Minister’s Office regarding the end of aid,” an official told the site.
“The ministry was aware of the intention to end it, but was surprised by the intention to do so immediately.”
Defence ministry officials and the military were also reportedly surprised by the announcement.
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