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July 28, 2009

Gates Discusses Arms Deal in Iraq and Israel
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Defense Secretary Robert Gates has arrived in Iraq on an unannounced
trip. Gates is meeting Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki and
discussing possible arms deals. Iraq has expressed interest in
purchasing F-16 multirole fighter jets built by Lockheed Martin. On
Monday, Gates also discussed arms deals while in Israel. At a news
conference, Gates said, “We will continue to ensure that Israel has the
most advanced weapons for its national defense.” On July 1, Israel
formally submitted a letter outlining its intention to buy the F-35
Joint Strike Fighter, also made by Lockheed Martin.



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