By Janet Ekstract
ISTANBUL- The U.S. State Department underscored the significance of the U.S:-Israeli relationship emphasizing that the relationship between the two countries is “rock solid.” In a formal statement released on Saturday, the State Department reiterated that the U.S. and Israel are “strong partners and friends,” highlighting Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s meetings in Israel at the “Negev Summit” will renew the “unwavering U.S. commitment to Israel’s security” and discuss issues with Iran and the Israeli-Palestinian challenges.
The statement said that for the fiscal year 2022 that an additional $1 billion has been allocated for Israel’s Iron Dome defense system “consistent with the Administration’s request.” It added that “Americans and Israelis are united by our shared commitment to democracy, economic prosperity, and regional security. Our partnership has never been stronger.” It highlighted was the support the U.S. has for “the expansion and deepening of relationships” between Israel, Arab and Muslim countries under the Abraham Accords.
In addition, the U.S. State Department reiterated the “deep and enduring strong bilateral relationship” and its backing of Israel strengthening peaceful relations with neighboring countries in the Middle East. The statement added: “We believe Palestinians and Israelis equally deserve to live safely and securely, and enjoy equal measures of freedom, prosperity and democracy.”
