'We face the same challenges, why not work together to tackle them?' premier says in newspaper interview

Premier slated to meet king, crown prince in bid to deepen bilateral relationship with Gulf island nation; will also meet local Jewish community

Officer will serve as a liaison to the US Navy's 5th Fleet, in first-ever Israeli military posting to an Arab country; army denies report, but says its under discussion

Diplomatic correspondent Lazar Berman discusses Ukraine and Iran, and military reporter Judah Ari Gross offers an overview of Defense Minister Benny Gantz's trip to Bahrain

Key topic for discussion during defense minister's trip is ensuring safe passageway through Red Sea, a source of concern for Israel in light of recent attacks on vessels

Participants in 5th Fleet drill include countries that Israel has no formal ties with, like Saudi Arabia, Oman; IDF says drill will 'advance our regional cooperation'

Delegation reportedly part of US effort to warm relations between the countries; Foreign Ministry won't confirm visit but says 'believes in international cooperation' against virus

Association of Gulf Jewish Communities plans to plant trees, starting on Tu Bishvat holiday, as part of initiative to renovate the only functioning Jewish graveyard in the Gulf

Appointment by King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa is latest sign some Arab countries are moving to reengage with Assad regime after keeping distance over brutal civil war

Report says US secretary of state raised the idea last week with senior officials, but Israeli sources expect no immediate breakthrough