Special to WorldTribune.com

WASHINGTON — Congress has been advancing legislation that would
designate Israel a “major strategic partner” of the United States.

The House passed a bill that would enhance U.S. weapons available to
Israel as well as expand stockpiles. The U.S.-Israel Strategic Partnership
Act of 2014 would also establish partnerships between the two countries in
the areas of cyber-security and energy.

“Israel remains the closest friend America has in the world,” Rep. Trent Franks, co-chairman of the Congressional Israel Allies Caucus, said. “Unfortunately, this administration has consistently failed to recognize that fact, often alienating allies like Israel while catering to our enemies.”

“[The bill] directs the president to direct the secretary of state to undertake discussions with Israel to identify the steps necessary to include Israel within the list of countries eligible for the Strategic Trade Authorization exception to the requirement for a license for the export, re-export, or in-country transfer of an item subject to certain export controls,” the legislation said.

The bill would also authorize the release of U.S. software source code and technology to Israel. For decades, Israel sought source codes for major combat platforms, including the F-16 multi-role fighter and the Joint Strike Fighter.

“The United States and Israel should continue collaborative efforts to
enhance Israel’s military capabilities,” the bill said. “The United States
and Israel should conclude an updated Memorandum of Understanding regarding
U.S. security assistance to help Israel meet its security requirements and
uphold its qualitative military edge. The United States should ensure that
Israel has timely access to important military equipment, and the United
States should continue to support Israel’s right of self-defense.”

Other terms of the bill would enable Israel to cooperate in civilian
space projects with the United States. The legislation would also direct
President Barack Obama and any successor to help Israel’s missile defense
programs.

“It should be U.S. policy that the president should provide assistance,
upon Israel’s request, for the David’s Sling Weapon System, the joint United
States-Israel Arrow Weapon System — Arrow-2 and Arrow-3 — and the Iron
Dome short-range rocket defense system,” the bill said.

Sponsors of the bill said, which on March 5 was passed by the House by a
vote of 410-1, would send a message to Obama not to reduce U.S. cooperation
with Israel. They cited heavy administration pressure on Israel to agree to
the establishment of a Palestinian state in the West Bank and Jerusalem.

  Arrow-2, Arrow-3, Congressional Israel Allies Caucus, Joint Strike Fighter, Rep.Trent Franks, U.S. Congress moves to designated Israel ‘major strategic partner’