Israel says it is building a US-sponsored regional air defence alliance which has already foiled attempted Iranian attacks.
Defence Minister Benny Gantz unveiled the “Middle East Air Defence Alliance” in a briefing to Israeli politicians on Monday.
On the same day Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett and Foreign Minister Yair Lapid agreed to dissolve parliament, with the latter to take over as prime minister.
Mr Gantz said the alliance could be boosted by President Joe Biden's visit next month.
Israel has offered defence co-operation to the US-aligned Arab states that share its concerns over Iran.
Washington hopes more co-operation, especially on security, will help to further integrate Israel in the region and isolate Iran.
Mr Gantz said co-operation with countries in the region was already under way.
“Over the past year, I have been leading an extensive programme, together with my partners at the Pentagon and in the US administration, that will strengthen the co-operation between Israel and countries in the region,” he said in an official transcript reported by Reuters.
“This programme is already operative and has already enabled the successful interception of Iranian attempts to attack Israel and other countries.”
The transcript did not name partner countries, give further details of the thwarted attacks or provide details on the mechanics of the alliance.
“I hope that we will take another step forward in this aspect (of regional co-operation) during President Biden’s important visit,” Mr Gantz said.
Mr Biden is visiting the region from July 13 to July 16 with stops in Israel and Saudi Arabia, where he will meet Arab leaders.
Our family matters legal consultant
Name: Hassan Mohsen Elhais
Position: legal consultant with Al Rowaad Advocates and Legal Consultants.
Dhadak 2
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How to watch Ireland v Pakistan in UAE
When: The one-off Test starts on Friday, May 11
What time: Each day’s play is scheduled to start at 2pm UAE time.
TV: The match will be broadcast on OSN Sports Cricket HD. Subscribers to the channel can also stream the action live on OSN Play.
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Takreem Awards winners 2021
Corporate Leadership: Carl Bistany (Lebanon)
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Pharaoh's curse
British aristocrat Lord Carnarvon, who funded the expedition to find the Tutankhamun tomb, died in a Cairo hotel four months after the crypt was opened.
He had been in poor health for many years after a car crash, and a mosquito bite made worse by a shaving cut led to blood poisoning and pneumonia.
Reports at the time said Lord Carnarvon suffered from “pain as the inflammation affected the nasal passages and eyes”.
Decades later, scientists contended he had died of aspergillosis after inhaling spores of the fungus aspergillus in the tomb, which can lie dormant for months. The fact several others who entered were also found dead withiin a short time led to the myth of the curse.
