Israeli and US Defense Ministers Discuss Continued Cooperation on Iran and Regional Security

Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant held a late-night conversation on Thursday with US Defense Secretary Pete Gosseth. According to a statement from Gallant's office, Gosseth updated Gallant on US military activities concerning Iran. Both ministers agreed to maintain close cooperation between their countries in response to any potential developments.

Gallant also briefed Gosseth on Israel's ongoing operations against jihadist terrorist groups in Syria, Gaza, and Lebanon. He emphasized Israel's determination to remain in security zones within these areas to protect Israeli borders and nearby communities, citing lessons learned from the October 7 attacks.

Earlier that week, a senior Israeli security official revealed that amid escalating tensions between the US and Iran, the Israel Defense Forces coordinated with the US military on various scenarios, including the possibility of Israel joining US strikes if America intensifies its response to Iran. The official noted internal divisions within Iran's leadership, with a pragmatic faction led by President Masoud Pezeshkian and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi seeking a deal due to Iran's difficult position. This division is causing delays and complications in negotiations with the US.