Why do we need to receive something “in return” for helping defend an ally and a threatened country? That’s a disgusting attitude to have.
On the face of it, yes. From the perspective of accountability between people and governments it is a question that needs to be asked. (Did you buy your oppressed neighbor a Sigarm P22 for Christmas?) Israel has tremendous resources, both natural and human. They are a blessed, and great people. Above that tough as nails. We could learn a few lessons from them.
Ultimately wars are born from lack of faith in God's provision. So there will always be wars. It's not kooky or insane or ridiculous to assert that the United States and its people live prosperously and peacefully without expecting the globe to follow her ideals in terms of what constitutes freedom. Same goes for Israel.
This is not just about wars and the middle east, but about good government. Good government is a blessing from Above. At the same time, Above did not plan this world to last forever.