Israel "staunch ally" of US - White House

WASHINGTON, Feb 11 (KUNA) -- The White House affirmed Saturday that Israel is a "staunch ally of the United States." The White House said in a statement "we support its (Israel) right to defend itself from the Iranian-backed Syrian and militia forces in southern Syria." "We call on Iran and its allies to cease provocative actions and work toward regional peace," it stressed.
Recently, Israel claimed that one of its jetfighters was downed by Iranian elements operating in Syria. Iran denies the accusation.
The Israeli military is targeting several Iranian positions in Syria due to "severe and irregular violation of Israeli sovereignty." (end) si.gta