Deputy Secretary Reaffirms U.S. Commitment During Visit to Israel

DoD News, Defense Media Activity

WASHINGTON, January 14, 2016 — Deputy Defense Secretary Bob Work met with senior Israeli officials during a three-day visit that ended today “to reaffirm the United States’ steadfast commitment to Israel's security,” a spokeswoman for Work said.

In a statement summarizing the visit, Navy Lt. Cmdr. Courtney Hillson said Work visited Tel Aviv and Jerusalem to meet with Israeli President Reuven Rivlin, Israeli Defense Minister Moshe Yaalon and the director-general of the Israeli Defense Ministry, Dan Harel.

“Their discussions focused on shared national security interests, regional security trends and ways to further strengthen Israel's qualitative military edge,” Hillson said.

Deepening Cooperation

During the visit, Work observed several demonstrations highlighting ways both countries can use technology to confront threats, Hillson said.

“He also explored ways to continue to deepen cooperation on defense technology and infrastructure,” Hillson added.

“Additionally, the deputy secretary discussed the development of the department's Third Offset Strategy and advanced capabilities,” Hillson said.

The Third Offset Strategy focuses on increasing the competitive advantage of American and allied forces over the coming decades.

In Jerusalem, Work toured the Old City and paid respects at Yad Vashem, the Jewish people’s living memorial to the Holocaust, where he laid a wreath in remembrance.

Work will visit the United Kingdom next, Hillson said.‎

“This trip provides an opportunity to build and strengthen key U.S. relationships,” Hillson added.