CIA Chief John Brennan: ‘very strong’ ties between Israel and US

Despite diplomatic tension between Jerusalem and Washington, collaboration on intel between the two countries remains firm, CIA Director John Brennan says.  

By: Aryeh Savir, World Israel News

Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) Chief John Brennan stated Sunday that despite the recent tensions between Washington and Jerusalem, the security cooperation between Israel and the US has not been hindered.

Speaking on Sunday to Bob Schieffer on CBS’ Face the Nation, Brennan clarified that in no way has the CIA intelligence gathering capabilities been degraded by the tensions between the two governments.

“There is a very, very strong relationship between United States and Israel on the intelligence, security and military fronts,” the CIA Director said. “It’s one of the great things, I think, about our system; there can be policy differences between our governments but the intelligence and security professionals know that we have an obligation to keep our countries safe and secure.”

Despite the differences of opinions between Israel and US and the “great debate” about the Iranian nuclear negotiations, “the CIA, NSA and other intelligence community entities are working very close with their Israeli as well as other counterparts,” he made clear.

Just last week, US  Marines teamed up with the IDF soldiers in a special exercise which combined training in urban warfare, parachuting, Krav-Maga and more.

Commenting on the drill, LT. Brian Fitzsimmons, a platoon commander, said that the US soldiers were “happy to work with the IDF. Ultimately, we have the same goal – to serve our country and protect our families.”