U.S. national security advisor meets with incoming Israeli counterpart for first time

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WASHINGTON – U.S. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan on Monday met with incoming Israeli National Security Advisor Dr. Eyal Hulata for the first time since his appointment last month.

According to a White House readout of the meeting, Sullivan congratulated Hulata on his new role and emphasized that he looks forward to working together to strengthen all aspects of the U.S.-Israel partnership.

“Mr. Sullivan and Dr. Hulata discussed the strategic challenges in the region, including the threat posed by Iran, and agreed to consult closely on these issues,” the White House readout stated. Earlier in the day, Secretary of State Antony Blinken promised a collective response to an Iranian drone attack on an Israeli-managed tanker off the coast of Oman, saying that the U.S. is in close contact with Israel and other countries on the matter.

Dr. Eyal Hulata. His mother’s family immigrated from Persia (Iran) to Jerusalem in the early 20th century.

The White House readout added that they also “exchanged views about the opportunities in the region, including advancing the normalization of relations between Israel and countries in the Arab and Muslim world and recent positive developments in Israel’s relationship with Jordan.”

Sullivan also “stressed the importance of pursuing positive steps related to the Palestinians, which are critical to peace, security and prosperity,” the White House added.

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The two officials further discussed Bennett’s upcoming visit to Washington. Biden previously extended an invitation to Bennett via outgoing Israeli President Reuven Rivlin, and the visit is expected to be scheduled for late August.

Bennett’s appointment of Hulata, a 45-year-old former senior Mossad official who will be the youngest national security chief in Israeli history, was considered a creative appointment on Bennett’s part and roundly welcomed in Israel. He will officially take over from his predecessor Meir Ben-Shabbat at the end of the month.