Israel’s relations with the U.S. have been a bit shaky lately, but the Defense Minister stated: “No argument, however severe, will mar the relations between the two countries.”
Defense Minister Moshe Ya’alon had extremely warm words for the U.S., speaking on Tuesday at the unveiling ceremony of an Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) production line, which will produce wings for the US-made F-35 fighter jet.
“The U.S. supplied Israel throughout the years with wide-scale assistance, particularly in the defense field, and it is the one that assists Israel in standing up to challenges,” Ya’alon said. “As someone who has for years accompanied these special relations, I am deeply moved every time by the depth of the ties and the intimacy between the defense establishments and the militaries that are at their helm. In a changing and stormy Middle East, where one does not know what the next day will bring, these are important ties, like no other.”
Israel and the U.S. have recently experienced some diplomatic difficulties, but Ya’alon chose to focus on the common interests and strong bond between the two countries: “This cooperation is a symbol of the connection between the United States and Israel, despite friction,” he said. “This is a special relationship, incomparable – the bond between the world’s greatest power, the leader of the free world, and its biggest friend: the State of Israel.”
“This is the time to say it again, in a loud and clear voice: The deep ties between the US and Israel are stronger than any division. An argument, as harsh as it may be, will not darken relations between the countries and the gratitude felt by Israelis to the US and its role in our defense and power.”
Israeli Ingenuity an Asset to the U.S.
U.S. and Israeli flags. (Photo: Flash90)
Ya’alon elaborated on the productive fusion of Israeli ingenuity with American power. “This is a model of the power of the special relationship between the United States and Israel and between the defense establishments of the two countries and the strength of the State Israel, its people and capabilities.” Ya’alon stressed that “this cooperation is a winner: it’s where quality meets quality,” and that’s why the Pentagon and the defense industry of the United States chose “once again, to develop the most advanced technology with the Israeli defense industry.” Ya’alon explained.
“No argument, however severe, will mar the relations between the two countries. Israeli citizens owe gratitude to the United States for its contribution to our security and our strength,” Ya’alon concluded.
IAI had signed a contract with Lockheed Martin in April 2013 that stipulates that the IAI will produce the F-35 wings. The IAI center features a state-of-the-art automated production center, IAI said, featuring strict control of humidity and temperature conditions as well as ensuring environmental protection during the production process.
IAI will begin delivering the F-35 wings in mid-2015. The contract’s duration is for some 10-15 years, with potential sales reaching $2.5 billion. The first pair of wings is set to be delivered in 2015.
This is an outstanding example of excellent cooperation between Israel and the US. How do you feel about Israel? How would you like to see the ties between the US and Israel?
Author: United with Israel Staff