US and Israeli defence ministers discuss mutual cooperation

Israel’s Defence Minister Benny Gantz (L) meets US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin in Washington DC, US on 3 June 2021 [U.S. Department of Defense – Anadolu Agency]

The US Secretary of Defence, Lloyd Austin, and his Israeli counterpart Benny Gantz discussed mutual cooperation during in a telephone call on Tuesday morning, local media have reported.

Gantz spoke of the need to strengthen Israel’s security in light of the challenges being presented across the region, confirmed the Ministry of Defence. He also spoke about addressing the Iranian nuclear programme and opportunities to promote peace in the region through normalisation agreements. Apparently Gantz is keen to encourage “moderate” elements in the region.

Pentagon Press Secretary John F Kirby said that Austin stressed the importance of close coordination on Iran and other regional security challenges. The US official affirmed the Biden administration’s support for ongoing normalisation efforts and commitment to work with Israel to ensure its defence and security.

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