Monday, August 17, 2009

Dep FM Danny Ayalon on Israel's relationship with the U.S.:there are sometimes small disputes

(IMRA).Despite recent media reports of a worsening relationship between Israel and the United States, it is clear that these ties are as strong as ever. The bonds between the United States and Israel are far too great for any minor differences to impede.

These two great nations, Israel and the United States, have an immense sense of shared values, ethos and interests. When President Obama spoke in Cairo, he spoke directly to the Arab and Muslim world and stated clearly and succinctly that America's strong bonds with Israel are well known. This bond is unbreakable. It is based upon cultural and historical ties.

In these particularly unstable times, Americans can look with certainty to Israel as a true and enduring ally. The interests we share certainly include the yearning for a full peace in our region and a better future for all of our neighbors. We share a commonality of vision for a new peaceful reality that will be good for both Israelis and Arabs.

Like all good friends, there are sometimes small disputes. However, just like good friends, we will reach an understanding and reconcile two differences of opinions. To that, I have little doubt.

The Obama administration has continued to assist Israel in maintaining a qualitative edge in the region. The Arrow 3 project, anti-ballistic missiles developed and deployed by Israel, continues to be jointly funded and produced by Israel and the United States.