October 18, 2007 – U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates and Israeli Defense Minister Ehud Barak agreed Tuesday to cooperate further on missile defense.  The two sides agreed to form a committee to study an Israeli proposal on ways to modify and expand their existing missile defense systems to counter "not just the long-range threat coming from Iran, but short range Palestinian rockets coming from Gaza."  Congressman Franks, founder and co-chair of the House Missile Defense Caucus, made the following statement in response to the announcement. 

“Israel is one of our closest allies in the war against jihadist terrorism, both ideologically and strategically.” Franks stated.  “Cooperating with our allies in building an integrated missile defense system is not only the last line of defense against a nuclear missile attack, but it is also the first line of defense against proliferation because it reduces the military asset value of missile-borne weapons, from Katusha rockets to nuclear warheads.  Israel already has nominal missile defense capabilities; however, they remain vulnerable to attacks from shorter-range Palestinian rockets.  Secretary Gates and Defense Minister Barak have made another great stride in building a strong defense against out shared enemies.”

Israel has already successfully tested and deployed its Arrow anti-missile system, also jointly developed with the United States, through which it is purportedly able to deflect most mid-range missile strikes.  Congressman Trent Franks and Congressman Eric Cantor offered an amendment to the Defense Bill to authorize funds for David’s Sling designed to intercept short range missiles, and more funding for the Arrow program. The Democrats in the Rules Committee voted against consideration of the amendment.