https://english.almayadeen.net/news/politics/israel-says-building-regional-alliance-under-us

'Israel' says building regional alliance under US

The Israeli Security Minister Benny Gantz claimed on Monday that "Israel" is constructing a regional "air defense alliance" funded by the United States, claiming that the system has previously prevented attempted "Iranian attacks" and might be bolstered by President Joe Biden's visit next month.

After announcing this month that he will visit Saudi Arabia, Biden said this visit is primarily to address "Israel's security issues."

Gantz called the alliance in a briefing the "Middle East Air Defense Alliance" to Israeli lawmakers, claiming that cooperation has already been initiated.

According to the official transcript, "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 cooperation between "Israel" and countries in the region."

Gantz highlighted that the program was already "operative" and claimed it already intercepted Iranian attempts to "attack Israel and other countries."

Gantz failed to mention what countries he was referring to or give any details about the alleged attacks.

While accusing Iran of carrying out attacks against "Israel" as per Israeli claims, the occupation Air Force conducted a simulation of a widescale strike on Iran in May, during the "Chariots of Fire" drills.

The Minister expressed hope that Biden's visit will enable the occupation to take one step closer toward cooperation.

Biden is expected to visit "Israel" on July 14-15 and Saudi Arabia on July 15-16. His visit to the latter will include a meeting with the Kingdom's de facto leader, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.