Statement on Secretary of Defense Ash Carter’s Travel to the Middle East
July 17, 2015

Beginning on July 19, Secretary of Defense Ash Carter will travel to Israel, Saudi Arabia, and Jordan.

Secretary Carter will begin his trip in Israel on July 19. He will work with Israel to further explore ongoing efforts to identify solutions to some of their most critical security challenges – countering Iran’s destabilizing activities and preventing terror attacks.

Secretary Carter will also travel to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia to meet with senior Saudi officials.

Secretary Carter’s stop in Jordan will focus on the international coalition’s fight against ISIL. Secretary Carter will meet with multi-national commanders and senior Jordanian military officials to discuss the fight and regional developments. Secretary Carter will thank Jordan for its leadership in the coalition, and also thank and recognize the work of the international air crew members for their efforts to degrade and destroy ISIL.