A recent congressional vote on military aid to Israel and Jordan illustrates the substantial benefits the United States receives from its relationship with Israel.
Congress voted on $3.5 billion in military aid to Israel, followed minutes later by a vote on $2 billion in aid to Jordan. The Jordan vote passed 421-6, while 103 Democrats and one Republican, Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.), voted against the Israel aid package. All voting against Israel also voted for Jordan aid.
Comparing the two countries' contributions to U.S. Interests reveals significant differences. Israel ranks as a leading global military power, maintaining one of the world's top air forces, leading in missile defense capabilities, and operating an advanced intelligence service. It has also emerged as a major economic force, with a GDP of $719.85 billion annually and average salaries of $70,000, despite ongoing security challenges. By contrast, Jordan has a GDP of $64.9 billion with average annual salaries under $6,000, possesses four times Israel's landmass, and has a population 1.5 million larger.
Regarding security contributions, Jordan hosts a U.S. Military base but provides minimal security benefit to America and has not participated in efforts against Iran despite repeated attacks from that country. Israel has actively fought alongside the United States against Iran and sustained significant damage in doing so.
Israeli innovation has produced numerous technological and medical advances used globally, including advances in medical imaging, mobility assistance, multiple sclerosis treatment, autonomous vehicle systems, cybersecurity, water desalination, solar energy, and artificial intelligence applications for the visually impaired. Israel has approximately 100 companies listed on NASDAQ - the fourth-highest number worldwide - compared to Jordan's single NASDAQ-listed company. Nine of the world's ten wealthiest companies maintain offices in Israel, with many maintaining their largest operations outside the United States.