A press report indicates that the United States has promised to protect Israel against missile attacks in a potential war with Iraq. The Washington Post reported on Friday, citing senior officials from the U.S. and Israel, that this promise was made during Prime Minister Ariel Sharon's visit to Washington. According to the report, the Bush administration is prepared to send special operations forces to the western part of Iraq to eliminate Iraq's missile capabilities at the onset of any war. However, the Washington Post states that Israeli officials emphasize that Israel will be able to respond if attacked.
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The Promise Washington Made to Sharon - 2002-10-19
Feb 11, 2026
February 11, 2026
1 min read
📰 VOA Persian
📋 Key Takeaway
The U.S. promised Israel protection against missile attacks in a potential conflict with Iraq during Ariel Sharon's visit to Washington. The Bush administration is ready to deploy special forces to neutralize Iraq's missile capabilities. This assurance highlights the strategic partnership between the U.S. and Israel amid rising tensions in the region.
🔍 Quick Context Guide
💡 Bottom Line:
The U.S. commitment to Israel's defense underscores the strategic alliance between the two nations amid rising regional tensions.
👥 Key Players
Ariel Sharon
MENTIONED
Prime Minister of Israel
"As a key figure in Israeli politics, Sharon's decisions significantly influence Israeli security policies and relations with the U.S."
George W. Bush
MENTIONED
President of the United States
"Bush's administration played a crucial role in shaping U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East, particularly regarding Iraq and Israel."
Iraq
MENTIONED
Nation potentially involved in conflict
"Iraq's military capabilities and actions directly impact regional stability and U.S.-Israel relations."
📰 What Happened
The U.S. assured Israel of protection against missile attacks in a potential war with Iraq during Ariel Sharon's visit to Washington. The Bush administration is ready to deploy special forces to neutralize Iraq's missile capabilities at the onset of any conflict.
- The U.S. promised to protect Israel from missile attacks during a potential conflict with Iraq.
- Special operations forces may be deployed to Iraq to eliminate missile threats.
💡 Why It Matters
🇮🇷 For Iran: Iran views U.S. support for Israel as a direct threat, influencing its own military and diplomatic strategies in the region.
🌍 Regional: This assurance could escalate tensions in the Middle East, particularly with Iran and other regional actors who oppose U.S. and Israeli policies.
🌐 International: The U.S. commitment to Israel may affect international perceptions of U.S. foreign policy and its approach to conflicts in the Middle East.
📚 Background
The U.S. and Israel have a long-standing alliance, particularly in the context of regional threats from nations like Iraq and Iran. This promise reflects the ongoing military and political support the U.S. provides to Israel.
U.S.-Israel relations
Iraq War
📡 Source:
INTERNATIONAL
📊 Confidence:
70%
The Washington Post is a reputable news source, but readers should consider the political context of the time regarding U.S.-Israel relations.
🏷️ Entities Mentioned
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Translated from the original and edited for English readers. View original source →
Translation confidence: 85%
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