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Source: https://www.thejc.com/opinion/analysis/why-britain-must-deepen-its-defence-ties-with-israel-wiyghj8e
Why Britain Must Deepen Its Defense Ties with Israel
(Jewish Chronicle-UK) Former British Defense Secretary Grant Shapps - The UK and Israel must deepen our defense ties. This isn't just about moral solidarity; it is about making Britain safer in an increasingly dangerous world. As Defense Secretary at the time of the Oct. 7 atrocity, I ensured that Britain provided Israel with all the support we could offer. British intelligence played a crucial role in efforts to locate and rescue hostages. We understood that this was not just an Israeli fight but a battle against the forces of terror that threaten all democracies. Beyond the emotional and moral imperative, the hard reality is that Britain's security interests are directly aligned with Israel's. Iran is becoming more emboldened, funding and arming groups that threaten Western nations, not just in the Middle East but globally. Israel's intelligence and counterterrorism capabilities are among the best in the world, and closer cooperation allows Britain to benefit from that expertise. At the same time, America's role in European defense is becoming less predictable. Strengthening alliances with key partners like Israel is not just advisable - it is essential. Deepening defense ties with Israel is not about taking sides in a distant conflict; it is about ensuring that Britain remains protected in an era of rising global threats.