Defense Minister Bnei Gantz is holding a meeting today (Thursday) with US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, with the main issue discussed being the Iranian nuclear program.
While Israel is concerned about the apathy of the world on the issue, the issue that worries the US most of all these days is Ukraine. Ganz presented Israel’s policy and emphasized that it allows for support for Ukraine on the one hand, and on maintaining the region’s stability on the other.
The good news that came out of the meeting is the understanding that they apparently do not intend to withdraw from the Revolutionary Guards classification in Iran as a terrorist organization, and are already working to strengthen the regional coalition. Austin stressed that he leads the process and knows it personally.
Ganz emphasized the parallel between Ukraine and the Iranian issue. The Americans plan to deepen their relations with the Gulf states and see themselves as leaders in “regional architecture.” Israel sees itself as part of the US power in the region and will work with it in combination in this regard.
On the Palestinian issue, the Secretary of State expressed concern about the situation. The Americans expressed regret over the recent attacks and condemned them, and also mentioned the funeral of Sheerin Abu Akala and the need to take action to return to confidence-building measures vis-à-vis the Palestinian Authority. The Minister of Defense informed them that Israel will continue to act against the terrorist organizations in a focused but uncompromising manner and that in the long run this will lead to more stability and allow the moves to continue with the Palestinians.
Gantz’s delegation says the two meetings were very hot.