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                  US Defense Secretary Emphasizes Israeli Ties

   U.S. Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel says allies need to remain "closer
   than ever" as challenges in the Middle East become more complicated.
   Speaking alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu before a
   meeting Tuesday, Hagel said this is a "difficult and dangerous time."
   He expressed optimism that the U.S., Israel and their allies can make
   Israel and the region more secure.
   Mr. Netanyahu said Israel appreciates U.S. military and security
   support, and said Israel "cannot accept" the arming of terrorist groups
   by Iran, nor that country`s pursuit of nuclear weapons.
   Iran says its nuclear program is strictly for peaceful purposes.
   The talks Monday are part of the last of a three-day trip to Israel for
   Hagel, as part of a broader visit to the region that will include stops
   in Jordan, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.
   On Monday, Hagel met with Israeli Defense Minister Moshe Yaalon, and
   assured Israel that the U.S. government is committed to preserving
   Israel`s military.
   He said the U.S. government would allow Israel to buy advanced U.S.
   missiles designed to take out air defenses, radar for fighter jets,
   aerial refueling planes and tilt-rotor transport aircraft that can
   take-off and land vertically.
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   [1]http://www.voanews.com/content/us-defense-secretary-emphasizes-israe
   li-ties/1646951.html

References

   1. http://www.voanews.com/content/us-defense-secretary-emphasizes-israeli-ties/1646951.html