WASHINGTON — The United States and Israel on Monday listed Iran's nuclear ambitions as a top concern, as they held another round of talks in their twice-yearly strategic dialogue.
US Deputy Secretary of State James Steinberg and Israeli Deputy Foreign Minister Daniel Ayalon held the talks in Washington about common strategic concerns, including Iran and the Arab-Israeli peace process.
"While today's strategic dialogue covered many subjects, it is clear that Iran is among the greatest challenges we face today in the Middle East," the two said in a joint statement.
"Iran's continued noncompliance with its international obligations related to its nuclear program, as well as its continued support for terrorist entities, are of grave concern to our two countries and the entire international community," the statement said.
"Continued efforts by the international community to address Iran's actions through both pressure and engagement are critical to changing Iran's strategic calculus and preventing Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapons capability."
The United States spearheaded international efforts to impose a fourth round of UN Security Council sanctions in June, sanctions it says are aimed at bringing Iran back to the negotiating table to discuss its nuclear program.
Neither Israel nor the United States has ruled out military strikes in a bid to make Iran comply with international demands to halt its uranium enrichment program.
Washington and Tel Aviv fear the program masks a drive to build a nuclear bomb, but Iran denies the charge, saying its program is for peaceful purposes.
"The United States and Israel are committed to working together to enhance regional security and stability," the statement added.
"The present discussions helped identify ways to improve our already strong cooperation in this regard for the benefit of all in the region," it said.
"The United States and Israel also reemphasized their commitment to the pursuit of lasting peace between Israel and the Palestinians, and between Israel and all of its neighbors," it added.
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