The Friends of the Israel Defense Forces (FIDF) is a United States-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 1981 by a group of Holocaust survivors, initially under the leadership of John Klein. Headquartered in New York City and directed by CEO David Kleinman, FIDF raises funds to support the health, well-being, education, and welfare of active-duty soldiers in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), as well as veterans and bereaved families. The organization coordinates with Israel's Ministry of Defense and the Association for Israel's Soldiers to fund a wide range of initiatives, including scholarships, recreational activities, mental health services, family support, rehabilitation programs, emergency relief efforts, and capital projects such as facilities for soldiers. Over four decades, FIDF has expanded into a national network of chapters across the United States and international affiliates, hosting high-profile fundraising galas, golf tournaments, and other events attended by celebrities, philanthropists, and political figures to engage supporters. FIDF has raised hundreds of millions of dollars since inception, with a focus on enhancing soldier morale and post-service opportunities.

FIDF has strong ties to prominent pro-Israel donors and political figures, including major contributions from the Adelson Family Foundation, Miriam Adelson, and Haim Saban, and has awarded honors to US politicians such as Lindsey Graham, Mike Pompeo, and Nikki Haley, while hosting events with Israeli leaders like Benjamin Netanyahu and Yoav Gallant. The organization has hosted events attended by celebrities such as Gal Gadot and Arnold Schwarzenegger, and has briefed or awarded figures like Benjamin Netanyahu and Mike Pompeo. As a key player in pro-Israel advocacy, FIDF influences U.S. policy discussions through its network, sponsoring events for politicians like Nikki Haley and Rudy Giuliani, and has been involved in advocacy efforts with figures like Miriam Adelson and Rudy Giuliani sponsoring its initiatives.

While praised for its direct humanitarian impact on Israeli military families and its role in enhancing soldier morale and quality of life, FIDF has faced scrutiny and protests from critics who question its allocation of funds, its close ties to pro-Israel advocacy, and its indirect support of military operations during periods of heightened Israel-Palestine conflict. The organization has been criticized by groups like Jewish Voice for Peace for promoting militarism and supporting controversial IDF actions, including operations in occupied territories, with allegations regarding the use of funds for programs in Israeli settlements leading to debates about its alignment with international law. Reports in outlets like The New York Times and Haaretz have scrutinized its financial transparency and the use of funds in conflict zones, highlighting FIDF's influence in pro-Israel networks. Media coverage has also highlighted personal connections with celebrities such as Gal Gadot and Arnold Schwarzenegger.

The organization maintains transparency through IRS Form 990 filings and operates strictly as a nonprofit without direct political involvement, focusing on non-political and non-military aid. No major legal troubles or convictions are recorded, but ongoing scrutiny from advocacy groups underscores its role in broader geopolitical influence networks. Its activities extend to educational initiatives and veteran support, but controversies persist over the militarization of aid and ties to Israeli defense officials like Yoav Gallant. The organization's role in mapping influence networks highlights its connections to conservative donors and Republican leaders, positioning it as a conduit for financial and political support for Israel's military apparatus.