US, Israel close many gaps in defense aid talks, hope for deal soon

WASHINGTON – The United States and Israel have closed many of the remaining gaps in negotiations over a new multibillion-dollar military aid package for Washington’s top Middle East ally, and the two sides hope to reach a deal soon, a senior US official said on Wednesday.

 

Jacob Nagel, acting head of Israel’s national security council, wrapped up three days of closed-door discussions in Washington over a new 10-year defense pact, including a meeting with US national security adviser Susan Rice.

 

Drawn-out aid negotiations have underscored continuing friction between US President Barack Obama and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over last year’s US-led nuclear deal with Iran, Israel’s arch-foe. The United States and Israel have also been at odds over the Palestinians.

 

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