Nikki Haley Declares She’d Give Israel ‘Whatever They Need,’ But Says They’re ‘Too Prideful’ To Ask For Ground Troops

Nikki Haley suggested on Wednesday that she would be open to providing Israel with ground troop support if she were president, but she doesn't believe the country will ask for such support.

Speaking with conservative radio host Hugh Hewitt, Haley declared she'd give Israel "whatever they need" as commander in chief.

"I would give Israel whatever they need, but they’re not going to ask for Israel troops. They are too prideful. They want to do this themselves," the former ambassador said. "They want to be the ones that fight. They want to be the ones that win. What I think they’re going to ask for is medical help. What I think they're going to ask for is backup and air support."

Haley argued the conflict between Israel and Hamas needs to remain "very selective" and the U.S. needs to be quick to provide support.

"We have to keep this very selective. We’ve got to keep is concentrated where it is. But if it means that this is going to get bigger, we can’t just say it. We have to mean it," she said. "And that means we’ve got to be prepared to do whatever Israel asks. Israel is a very prideful country. They’re not going to be quick to say oh, we need American troops. They want to fight this on their own. But when they ask for something, that means Israel really does need it, and [President Joe] Biden can’t hesitate. He’s got to give it right when they ask."

Hamas attacked Israeli civilians on October 7, killing hundreds, including Americans. Israel has since responded with airstrikes on Gaza.

On Wednesday, during an Israel trip, Biden promised a spending package with "unprecedented support" for Israel was coming.

"You will have what you need to protect your nation," he said.