From Israel to Europe, US allies push for defence independence amid Trump uncertainty

Two of Washington's closest partners, Israel and the European Union, are signalling a desire to reduce their dependence on American military support, reflecting growing uncertainty about the future role of the United States in global security affairs.

Leaders in both Jerusalem and Brussels have publicly called for greater military self-reliance. While the motivations differ, the underlying concern is similar: allies can no longer assume that US military assistance and strategic backing will always remain available at current levels.

The shift comes as President Donald Trump's administration reassesses America's overseas commitments, particularly following tensions over the Iran conflict.

Netanyahu calls for military independence

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has renewed calls for Israel to develop greater military autonomy and reduce its reliance on American aid.

Speaking to reserve officers in the West Bank, Netanyahu said Israel should "break free from dependency" and build its own independent armaments network.

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"I deeply appreciate the support we have received from our American friends, but we need to break free from dependency and build our own independent armaments network," he said.

The comments came just a day after the US and Iran reached an initial agreement aimed at ending the recent West Asia conflict — a development that has faced strong opposition within Israel.

Netanyahu argued that Israel must increasingly manufacture its own weapons and strengthen domestic defence production.

The comments are notable given the scale of US support for Israel. Since 1948, Israel has received more than $300 billion in American economic and military assistance.

Europe prepares for a reduced US presence

A similar debate is unfolding in Europe.

EU Defence Commissioner Andrius Kubilius warned this week that Europe faces an "urgent challenge" to replace key American military capabilities if Washington reduces its presence on the continent.

His comments followed the Pentagon's announcement of a six-month review of US force deployments in Europe. European officials fear that American strategic assets could be redirected to other regions.

"We have to be prepared. This could not be at some distant time in the future. It could be soon," Kubilius said at a defence conference in Brussels.

He warned that Europe must prepare to replace American heavy weaponry, intelligence capabilities and other critical military assets. According to estimates cited by Kubilius, filling those gaps could cost around €500 billion.

A changing security landscape

The developments reflect a broader shift in the international security environment.

For Europe, concerns centre on the possibility of reduced American engagement and the continuing threat posed by Russia. For Israel, recent disagreements with Washington over regional conflicts and diplomacy have reinforced the argument for greater strategic autonomy.

Although neither Israel nor Europe is seeking to end its partnership with the US, both are increasingly preparing for a future in which American support may be less predictable.