US, Israel close many gaps in defense aid talks, hope for deal soon
By REUTERS
WASHINGTON - The United States and Israel have closed many of the remaining gaps in negotiations over a new multi-billion-dollar military aid package for Washington's top Middle East ally, and the two sides hope to reach a final deal soon, a senior US official said on Wednesday.Three days of talks ended on Wednesday, and Jacob Nagel, acting head of Israel's national security council and leader of his country's negotiating team, then met with US national security adviser Susan Rice.Tense, drawn-out negotiations over the new 10-year agreement have underscored continuing friction between US President Barack Obama and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over last year's US-led nuclear deal with Iran, Israel's arch-foe.
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