Secretary of Defense Dr. Mark T. Esper spoke with Israeli Defense Minister Benjamin “Benny” Gantz over the phone today. During the call, Secretary Esper congratulated Minister Gantz on the historic step to normalize relations between Israel and the United Arab Emirates under the Abraham Accords. Both leaders exchanged views on how recent developments will advance shared U.S.-Israeli defense priorities, and committed to maintaining an open dialogue about potential avenues for cooperation.