​Israeli and U.S delegations, headed by Acting National Security Advisor BG (Res) Jacob Nagel, Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs Director General Dr. Dore Gold and U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Antony Blinken met today (Thursday, 16 June 2016) in Jerusalem for the latest round of the annual U.S.-Israel Strategic Dialogue.  The delegations discussed a full range of security matters, including shared threats, opportunities for regional cooperation, and other regional issues, including Iran.  The Strategic Dialogue is an opportunity for both the United States and Israel to discuss at a senior level a variety of issues and perspectives, and evaluate their policy implications for both our countries.

The United States and Israel agreed that threats from terrorist organizations are among the greatest challenges we currently face in the Middle East. Both countries expressed their deep concern that Da’esh has dramatically undermined regional stability particularly in Iraq and Syria - and continues to commit gross, systemic abuses of human rights and violations of international law. The missile capability of Hizballah and the terrorist build-up of Hamas in Gaza also present enormous threats. Hizballah's willingness to use violence against Israel and to import weapons into Lebanon is a violation of UN Security Council Resolution 1701 and threatens security in the region.  Moreover, Hizballah’s presence and fighting inside Syria continues to incite instability inside Lebanon.  Al-Qa’ida and its affiliates continue to seek and take advantage of opportunities to conduct attacks amidst the fragile political and security climate across the region.  Regarding Iran, both countries agreed to continue their strong cooperation countering all threats emanating from Iran. The delegations condemned all support of terrorism in the region and worldwide.

Both countries agreed that the dialogue underscores the strength of the strategic partnership between the US and Israel, which is based upon shared values and common interests, and a commitment to ensuring Israel's security. Both countries agreed to continue coordination on the full range of shared threats. We look forward to continuing the Strategic Dialogue in 2017 as an important forum to study and address the serious issues facing the United States, Israel, and the region.