|
Iran nuclear program, and so-far fruitless international
negotiations to revive a 2015 deal capping it, are among issues
likely to be on Biden's agenda when he comes to Israel and Saudi
Arabia next month.
In a speech, Defense Minister Benny Gantz cited Israel's
security ties with Gulf Arab states that drew closer to it under
a 2020 U.S.-sponsored diplomatic drive, as well as Egypt and
Jordan, and said there were efforts to expand such cooperation.
"What is needed is not just cooperation, but also a regional
force build-up, with American leadership, which would strengthen
all parties involved," he said, according to an official
transcript.
The original Hebrew did not make clear whether "force" referred
to a joint military unit, or more general capabilities.
"On this, we are working continually, for the sake of the
security of Israel's citizens," Gantz said.
Saudi Arabia signaled its backing for the so-called Abraham
Accords under which the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain forged
relations with Israel two years ago. But Riyadh has stopped
short of formally recognizing neighboring Israel.
(Writing by Dan Williams; editing by James Mackenzie and Angus
MacSwan)
[© 2022 Thomson Reuters. All rights
reserved.]
This material may not be published,
broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Thompson Reuters is solely responsible for this content.
|
|
