Israel seeks to boost counterterror ties with PH

Israel is seeking to enhance counterterrorism cooperation with the Philippines to combat threats from global terrorism networks, according to its top diplomat in the country. Both countries share mutual concerns on terrorism posed by Islamic State-linked groups. “One of our main threats is terrorism. You have been dealing with this issue for a long time and Israel has been challenged with these issues for many years,” Israeli envoy Ilan Fluss said. A high-level delegation from Israel’s Foreign Ministry and National Security Council visited Manila early this month to hold discussions with counterparts on regional challenges and strategic threats. “It’s the first time we had such a meeting on the high level,” Fluss added. —Frances Mangosing