Tel Aviv
Israel’s defence minister pledged on Sunday to cooperate with the United States on Iran, voicing hope that Israeli security would be safeguarded under any renewed Iranian nuclear deal that Washington reaches.
“Israel views the United States as a full partner across all operational theatres, not the least Iran,” Benny Gantz said after hosting visiting US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin.
“And we will work closely with our American allies to ensure that any new agreement with Iran will secure the vital interests of the world and the United States, prevent a dangerous arms race in our region and protect the State of Israel.”
Austin, making the first visit to Israel by a senior Biden administration official, told his counterpart that Washington views the alliance with Israel as central to regional security.
In his public remarks, Austin did not comment on Iran specifically.
He said the Biden administration would continue to ensure Israel’s “qualitative military edge” in the ME as part of a “strong commitment to Israel and the Israeli people”.
“Our bilateral relationship with Israel in particular is central to regional stability and security in the Middle East.—Agencies
