Israel, U.S. to cooperate against terrorism

The United States and Israel signed a memorandum of understanding enhancing their partnership to fight world terrorism. The Memorandum of Mutual Understanding signed Wednesday by U.S. Homeland Security Michael Chertoff and Israeli Public Security Minister Avi Dichter promised collaboration on flight security, emergency planning, damage control and explosives detection research. The two countries also will hold joint staff training and sponsor exchanges in an attempt to reduce terrorist activity. A steering committee will be established to keep the initiative on track. Dichter has described the partnership as “a breakthrough,” according to The Jerusalem Post. Also Wednesday, U.S. Reps. Peter King (R-N.Y.) and Bennie Thompson (D-Miss.) reintroduced legislation that would facilitate homeland security collaboration among the United States, Israel and other allies. The legislation passed the U.S. House of Representatives last year but failed to get a Senate hearing.