U.S., Israel work together against terror

JERUSALEM, Jan. 4 (UPI) -- U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano told Israeli leaders the United States is committed to protect both countries against terrorist threats.

Napolitano met Tuesday with Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu, Finance Minister Yuval Steinitz, Foreign Minister Avigdor Lieberman and Public Security Minister Yitzhak Aharonovich in Jerusalem as part of her multinational trip to Asia and the Middle East, the department said in a release.

"As a steadfast ally to Israel, the United States is committed to continuing our strong partnership to protect both countries against new and evolving terrorist threats," Napolitano said.

"The Department of Homeland Security will continue to work closely with the Israeli government and other nations around the world to strengthen the security of the international aviation system, secure the global supply chain, protect our vital cyber networks and infrastructure, and enhance disaster preparedness and response capabilities."

Napolitano also discussed the department's efforts to fight the trafficking of chemicals used to manufacture improvised explosive devices and the need for the United States and Israel to work together to protect citizens of both countries from threats of terrorism.

She also visited Ben Gurion International Airport, meeting with airport officials to discuss ways the two countries are improving global aviation security while streamlining legitimate travel and trade, the Department of Homeland Security said. The United States and Israel are working together to share information about terrorists and other individuals who may pose a security threat.