Prime Minister Naftali Bennett pointed to a recent increase in maritime threats against Israel during a visit to naval bases in Atlit and Haifa on Tuesday.
"In recent times we have seen an increase in threats in the maritime arena, shipping lanes and trade routes," said Bennett. "I definitely see this as a challenge, and we need to know that the target is the State of Israel, but not only. Therefore, I am particularly pleased about the strategic collaboration that is being forged, both with the US in joint naval exercises and with other friendships in the region."