United States-Israel Security Assistance Authorization Act of 2020

United States-Israel Security Assistance Authorization Act of 2020

This bill provides for security assistance to Israel and authorizes actions to further U.S.-Israel cooperation.

Specifically, under the Foreign Military Financing Program, the bill makes no less than $3.3 billion annually available to Israel through FY2028. The bill also extends through FY2025 (1) authority to stockpile war reserves in Israel, and (2) loan guarantees to Israel for up to $9 billion.

The President is authorized to transfer munitions from reserve stocks to Israel for its self-defense. Further, the President must describe steps taken to include Israel in the list of countries eligible for the strategic trade authorization exception, which authorizes exports, reexports, and in-country transfers in lieu of a license that would otherwise be required. Lastly, the President must establish and update contingency plans to provide Israel with defense articles and services necessary for its defense.

The Department of State is authorized to (1) enter into memoranda of understanding with Israel with a focus on strengthening mutual ties and cooperation with nations throughout the world; and (2) establish a program between the United States, Israel, and other countries or territories to provide for cooperation in the Middle East region by financing and cooperating in programs related to innovation and advanced technologies. Further, the United States is authorized to enter into cooperative agreements with Israel and developing countries to identify and support local solutions for addressing sustainability challenges.

The State Department is authorized to carry out activities with Israel to establish directed energy capabilities that address threats to the United States, deployed forces of the United States, or Israel.

The bill authorizes cooperation on additional specified matters, including (1) health technologies, (2) civilian science and technology programs, and (3) space exploration and science initiatives.