Gates visit to Israel expected to focus on Iran’s nuclear ambitions…
OCCUPIED JERUSALEM: US Defense Secretary Robert Gates plans to visit Israel on July 27 for talks likely to focus on Iran’s nuclear ambitions and US-Israeli strategic ties, officials involved in planning the trip said on Sunday. As the second Cabinet-level representative of the Obama administration to be hosted by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Gates could also lobby for a resolution to the bilateral dispute over the future of West Bank settlements.
Gates has voiced sympathy for Israel’s concerns about the possibility of Iran developing nuclear weapons, but has also signalled unwillingness to see the Israelis launch pre-emptive strikes on their arch-foe that could destabilize the region.
The Obama administration has spoken of a need for tougher diplomacy with Tehran, while reassuring Israel on security.
“We expect Iran to be the main issue. There is obviously a value in a show of Americans and Israelis closing ranks about Iran,” said one official about the visit, asking not to be identified because a formal announcement has yet to be made.
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Nice site!
I know Gates publicly states he opposes an Israeli first strike, but I personally do not believe him. He’s as neo-con as neo-con can be.