Defense Minister Benny Gantz conducted a security briefing for U.S. President Biden in a Ministry of Defense site displaying Israel’s air and missile defense systems, in the presence of Prime Minister Yair Lapid.
During the briefing, Minister Gantz presented Israel’s high power laser system, as well as the Iron Dome and other elements of Israel’s multi-tier air defense.
Minister Gantz presented President Biden with a UAV that was intercepted in a successful test of the high power laser system. The test took place in March this year.*
President Biden was met by Israeli Prime Minister Yair Lapid, and was joined by U.S. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken and National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan. The Israeli delegation present in the briefing included the IDF Chief of the General Staff Lt. Gen. Aviv Kohavi, Director General of the Israel Ministry of Defense Maj. Gen. (Res.) Amir Eshel, Head of the NSC Eyal Hulata, and Israeli Ambassador to the U.S. Michael Herzog.
During the briefing, Minister Gantz told President Biden: “During your tenure and with your administration Mr. President, we have made groundbreaking strides in strengthening regional security cooperation – we are extremely appreciative of your leadership. We are grateful for your steadfast support for Israel’s security and for the assistance that was approved, including 1 billion USD for the replenishment of Iron Dome systems.
He added: “Our regional cooperation includes countries that seek stability and peace. The regional architecture and stability that the U.S. is leading, will promote economic growth and the protection of human rights in the region. I am certain that under your leadership and together with U.S. security organizations, we will continue developing defense cooperation on land, in the air, in the maritime arena and in the cyberspace.”
Minister Gantz said: “The unique bond between Israel and the United States is stronger than ever. The State of Israel is certain that the President will continue taking the measures necessary to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon.”